Romania to receive vessel from Türkiye, pending parliamentary approval: Report
A view of a ship of the 10 ships that are targeted to be built within the scope of the Turkish Navy's Offshore Patrol Vessel Project (OPV) in Istanbul, Türkiye on September 22, 2023. (AA Photo)
Romania is expected to receive a Hisar-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) from Türkiye within the next six months, contingent on the approval of the Romanian Parliament, according to Defense Romania.
This delivery marks a significant step in Romania’s efforts to modernize its naval forces amid ongoing regional tensions in the Black Sea.
The Hisar-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) is based on the design of the Turkish Navy’s Ada-class corvettes and is categorized as an offshore patrol vessel.
The Romanian Ministry of National Defense (MApN) has confirmed preparations to submit a formal acquisition request to Parliament, as required by current legislation for defense contracts exceeding €100 million.
Parliament approval required for final acquisition
The acquisition of the HISAR corvette was approved by the Supreme Council of National Defense (CSAT) in March 2025. MApN is finalizing a letter to seek Parliament’s approval, a necessary step before the contract can be officially signed.
The Hisar vessel, equipped with modern navigation and communication systems and advanced weapons and sensors, will be delivered in its current configuration.
Once in Romania, the corvette will undergo additional outfitting at a local shipyard to integrate the combat systems specified by the Romanian Naval Forces (FNR).
Delivery time is projected to be approximately six months following parliamentary approval.
Hisar-class vessel to strengthen Romania’s Black Sea presence
The Hisar-class vessel is designed for a broad range of missions, including the protection of critical maritime infrastructure, patrol duties, and independent or group naval combat operations.
The ship features a hangar capable of supporting a medium-sized helicopter and an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).
While the delivery of a single corvette is a notable step, it remains insufficient to meet Romania’s full security needs in the increasingly volatile Black Sea region.
Romania continues to prioritize the acquisition of offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) and potentially new frigates to bolster its naval fleet.
Romania’s broader military modernization efforts
Currently, the MApN is managing over 70 active military procurement and modernization programs across various branches, including land, air, naval, and special forces. Of these, 27 programs already have ongoing contracts, the ministry announced.
Key upcoming programs in 2025 include:
- Procurement of NATO-standard individual weapons, such as assault rifles, pistols, precision rifles, and grenade launchers.
- Acquisition of new infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) on tracks.
The most anticipated decision is the selection of the SHORAD-VSHORAD integrated air defense system for short- and very short-range protection.
Shift towards offshore patrol vessels after contract cancellation
Romania’s interest in OPVs follows the cancellation of the “Multifunctional Corvette” program, initially awarded to France’s Naval Group and Constanta Shipyard for the production of four Gowind 2500 corvettes.
Disputes between the French company and the Romanian shipyard led to the termination of the contract.
OPVs, or offshore patrol vessels, are mid-sized ships designed primarily for maritime security, surveillance, counter-piracy, and search-and-rescue operations.
They are generally larger and better equipped than coastal patrol boats but smaller and less heavily armed than frigates or destroyers. When outfitted with advanced weaponry, they are sometimes referred to as light corvettes.
Neighboring Bulgaria is also pursuing an OPV acquisition program to enhance its maritime security.
