What's Happening?
The Portuguese Navy has initiated the construction of its first Multi-Purpose Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment (AOR+) ship at ADA Shipyard in Istanbul, with Turkish shipbuilder STM as the primary contractor.
The steel-cutting ceremony took place on November 14, 2025, marking the start of the project. The contract for two AOR+ ships was signed in Lisbon on December 17, 2024, and came into force in April 2025. The keel-laying is expected in January 2026, with the first ship, Luís de Camões, scheduled for delivery in April 2028. The ships are designed with modular capabilities to perform various missions, including fuel and cargo transfer, transportation of tactical vehicles, humanitarian aid, disaster relief, medical support, and search-and-rescue operations.
Why It's Important?
The construction of these replenishment ships is significant for the Portuguese Navy as it enhances their operational capabilities and flexibility in maritime missions. The modular design allows the ships to support joint force projection and amphibious operations, which is crucial for Portugal's strategic interests in maritime security and humanitarian efforts. The collaboration with Turkish shipbuilder STM also highlights international cooperation in defense projects, potentially strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Portugal and Turkey. The project reflects Portugal's commitment to modernizing its naval fleet and expanding its ability to respond to various global challenges.
What's Next?
The next steps in the project include the keel-laying in January 2026 and the subsequent construction phases leading to the delivery of the first ship in April 2028. The Portuguese Navy will likely focus on integrating the new ships into their fleet operations, training personnel, and developing strategies to maximize the ships' capabilities. The successful completion of this project may pave the way for future collaborations in defense technology and shipbuilding between Portugal and other nations.
