On October 27, 2025, Turkish naval engineering company STM held the keel laying ceremony for the first “National Fast Attack Craft”, marking the official start of the vessel’s construction in Istanbul.
STM press release
STM, one of the leading companies in the Turkish defence sector, has marked another significant milestone in the nation’s naval history. Under the leadership of the Republic of Türkiye’s Secretariat of Defence Industries (SSB), the keel laying ceremony for the National Fast Attack Craft, designed under STM’s main contractorship responsibility for the Turkish Naval Forces Command, was successfully held at Istanbul Shipyard. Considered a critical milestone in shipbuilding, the “keel laying” ceremony symbolizes the official commencement of the vessel’s construction phase with the placement of the first hull block.
STM General Manager Özgür Güleryüz stated that an important stage has been achieved in Türkiye’s journey toward naval self-sufficiency and said:
“In the construction phase of our National Fast Attack Craft, which has been entirely designed by STM engineers, we have now placed the first block following the initial steel-cutting ceremony. This project represents not only the production of a new naval platform but also Türkiye’s advancement to the level of designing and constructing its own indigenous FAC. With its national design, high degree of indigenization and modern weapon systems, our National FAC will further enhance Türkiye’s deterrence and strength in the Blue Homeland.”
The National FAC’s Development Journey
A contract was signed between the Secretariat of Defence Industries (SSB) and STM on 9 September 2024 for the construction of the first vessel under the National FAC (Fast Attack Craft) Project. Construction of the first National FAC began in 2025, with the first steel-cutting ceremony held on 8 July. STM unveiled the model of Türkiye’s first National Fast Attack Craft for the first time at the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) on 22 July 2025.
The National Fast Attack Craft (FAC) will possess the capability to conduct surface warfare missions by deploying in predesignated concealment positions, thereby complicating enemy detection and identification. She is also able to engage surface targets using long-range guided missiles (ATMACA SSM) and 76mm Gun (MKE) and conduct coordinated attacks with frigates and helicopters in the task group.
To ensure survivability, while the ship will be equipped with competent air defense systems and she will deliver high speed and maneuverability as well. The project aims to maximize the use of indigenous resources/local content from design to all the way construction and the procurement of outfitting materials. Standing out with its ability to operate in shallow waters, the National FAC is designed so as to have a low radar cross-section (RCS) and she will be capable of performing various missions and executing live fire under heavy sea conditions, even at full load displacement.
Technical Specifications of the National Fast Attack Craft (FAC)
- Length Overall (LOA): 68.00 m
- Moulded Breadth (Bmax): 9.34 m
- Displacement: 700 tons
- Max Speed: 39+ knots
- Cruising Speed : 20 knots
- Range: 800 nm (min.)
- Accommodation for 36 personnel
Weapons and Sensors
- 76 mm Main Gun
- Surface to Surface Missile System (SSM)
- PDMS
- 2 x 12,7 mm Remote Controlled Weapon System
- 2 x Chaff/Decoy System
- Combat Management System
- 3D Surveillance Radar
- Electronic Support Measure System
- Infrared Search and Attack System
Propulsion and Electrical Systems
- 4 x Diesel Engine
- 4 x Steerable Waterjets
- 3 x Diesel Gensets
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Check out our video interview with STM about National FAC recorded during IDEF 2025:
