We are at a historic turning point in the goal of modernizing the striking power of the Turkish Naval Forces with indigenous and national platforms. The "National Fast Attack Craft (FAC) Project," carried out under the main contractorship of STM, symbolizes Türkiye's capability to build a FAC completely designed by its own engineers for the first time in its history. With speeds exceeding 39 knots, low radar signature, and heavy weapon load, this platform officially took physical shape with the first block laid on the slipway in 2025. Here is the technical anatomy and project process of the Turkish Navy's new "Hit-and-Run" master.
Türkiye has transferred the corvette and frigate design capabilities gained through the MİLGEM project to fast attack crafts, the most agile elements of naval warfare. having served for many years with German designs (Doğan, Rüzgar, Yıldız, and Kılıç classes), the Turkish Naval Forces are now counting down the days to possess a 100% national platform, specifically developed for Turkish operational concepts and bearing the signature of STM engineers.
A First in Turkish History: Full Independence from Design to Construction
The fundamental difference distinguishing the National FAC Project from previous procurement projects is design ownership. With this project, Türkiye has reached the capability to build a unique FAC developed entirely by STM engineers, without the need for another country's license or design for the first time in its history.
STM has taken on not only the construction but also the entire design, engineering, system integration, and main contractor roles, moving Türkiye's independence level in surface warfare technologies to a higher league.
Project Milestones: From 2020 to the Slipway
The process of transforming the National FAC from paper drawings to a steel hull proceeded with a strategic schedule:
- August 31, 2020 (Inception): The process began with the "Period-1 Contract Design" signed between the SSB (Presidency of Defense Industries) and STM. During this period, STM completed critical engineering studies such as hull form optimization, structural analyses, main propulsion system selection, and weapon configuration.
- September 9, 2024 (Prototype Contract): Following the maturation of the design, signatures were inked for the procurement of one prototype ship.
- July 8, 2025 (First Steel Cutting): The construction of the National FAC officially commenced.
- 2025 (Keel Laying): The first block of the ship was laid on the slipway, accelerating the construction process. The construction of the platform is ongoing at Istanbul Shipyard under STM's main contractorship.
Technical Power: Ghost and Sprinter
The National FAC is designed not just as a fast boat, but as a floating fortress with its sensor and weapon payload. The platform's technical specifications are structured to create a surprise effect:
- Speed and Propulsion: The ship operates with a combination of 4 diesel engines and 4 steerable water jets. The use of water jets instead of propellers provides the ship with a high speed of 39+ knots (approx. 72 km/h) and incredible maneuverability in shallow waters.
- Low Radar Signature (Stealth): The hull form is designed with the Low Radar Cross Section (RCS) principle. This feature makes the ship difficult to detect by enemy radars, increasing its "hiding and ambush" capabilities in the archipelago (Aegean Sea).
- Compact Crew: Thanks to a high level of automation, the ship can perform all combat functions with a crew of only 36 personnel.
Floating Arsenal: Weapon Systems
Despite having a displacement of 700 tons, the National FAC possesses firepower unexpected for its size. The ship's weapon configuration consists of the following systems:
- 76 mm Main Gun: For fast and effective surface engagement.
- Surface-to-Surface Guided Missiles (SSM): To destroy long-range naval targets (Likely ATMACA or ÇAKIR missiles).
- Point Defense Missile System (PDMS): Will protect the ship against air threats with guided missile capabilities.
- 12.7 mm RCWS: Remote-controlled weapon system against asymmetric threats.
- Chaff/Decoy System: Deception systems to confuse incoming guided missiles.
Mission Profile: Hit-and-Run and Sea Control
The National FAC will undertake versatile missions within the Turkish Naval Forces' Blue Homeland doctrine:
- Hit-and-Run Assault: Executing sudden raids on enemy elements with high speed and rapidly withdrawing from the area.
- Shallow Waters and Coastal Defense: Operating in shallow waters and between islands where larger ships cannot enter, thanks to water jets.
- Coordinated Attack: Engaging the enemy in coordination with frigates and helicopters via data links.
- Sea Control: Providing reconnaissance, patrol, and inspection in critical sea lines of communication.
When completed, the National FAC will carry deterrence in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean to a higher level as the youngest, fastest, and most indigenous hunter of the Turkish Navy.
