Türkiye reportedly engages in talks to build corvettes for Croatian Navy

Türkiye is reportedly in discussions with Croatia to construct up to three ADA-class corvettes, according to diplomatic sources cited by Greek media outlet Enikos.

The exploratory talks are reportedly ongoing, with representatives from Türkiye’s STM Defense recently visiting Zagreb for negotiations.

Diplomatic and industry talks underway

Diplomatic sources quoted by the Greek media outlet indicates that STM Defense officials have held meetings in Zagreb to discuss potential agreements with Croatian defense authorities.

The Turkish Embassy in Zagreb is also said to be playing a key role in facilitating these discussions.

The talks follow the visit of the Turkish corvette TCG Burgazada to Split in October, which reportedly sparked interest from the Croatian Navy in acquiring similar vessels.

Croatia has also invited defense contractors from France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Norway to submit their proposals.

In a statement on X, the Turkish Ministry of Defense announced the visit of the Turkish corvette to Croatia and said, “Corvette TCG Burgazada paid a port visit to Croatia/Port of Split. During the port visit, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the Republic of Croatia Hayriye Nurdan Erpulat Altuntas, Turkish Military Attache in Zagreb, Colonel Cuneyt Ali Demirturk, Commander of the Croatian Navy, Captain Damir Dojkic and the accompanying delegation visited TCG Burgazada.”

However, Türkiye is reportedly offering lower costs and shorter delivery timelines, giving it a competitive edge.

Croatia’s expanding military partnerships

Croatia has been expanding its military cooperation with Türkiye.

In November 2024, Zagreb signed a contract to acquire six Bayraktar TB2 drones, along with cameras and munitions.

This agreement was seen as a significant step in Croatia’s efforts to modernize its defense capabilities.

Türkiye’s expanding naval industry

The ADA-class corvettes are part of Türkiye’s MILGEM project, which began in 2015. These 100-meter, 2,400-ton warships are equipped for anti-submarine warfare and air defense operations.

Türkiye has successfully exported these corvettes to Pakistan and Ukraine, and negotiations are underway with Malaysia for additional units.

The potential deal with Croatia would further strengthen Türkiye’s presence in the European naval defense market.

High maneuvering capability	Redundancy philosophy
Sea Keeping and Stability	IR signature monitoring system
High durability and disturbed sensors & weapons in response to fires and damages.	Stealth design and low radar cross-section
Reduces underwater noise against threats and degaussing system	Stealth design and low radar cross section

3D Search Radar	Hull Mounted Sonar
E/O Sensors	Torpedo Detection / Countermeasure
F/C Radars	Laser Warning System
LPI Radar	Electronic Support System
SSM (HARPOON)	2 x 12.7 mm Gun (E/O Capability)
RAM	Decoy System

Length Overall: 99.44 meters	Maximum Speed: 29+ knots
Length Waterline: 90.55 meters	Cruise Speed: 15 knots
Beam Max: 14.42 meters	Helicopter Platform & Hangar Capacity: To carry 2 x S70 Seahawk helicopters (One in the hangar and one on the platform)
Draught: 3.59 meters	Main Propulsion: CODAG 2x shafts and CPP propellers
Displacement: 2400 tons	Power Generation: 4 x diesel generator
Helicopter Platform & Hangar Capacity: To carry 2 x S70 Seahawk helicopters, (One in the hangar and one on the platform)	Ship’s Boats: 2 x RHIB
Accommodation: Comfortable accommodation for 86 crew	Growth Capabilities: Custom Sensors & Weapons and higher accommodation