Romanian Defense Minister Confirms Plans to Acquire Hisar-Class Corvette

Romanian Defense Procurement: Acquisition of Turkish Hisar-Class OPVs

Overview of Procurement Plans

On August 15, Romanian Minister of National Defence Ionuț Moșteanu disclosed that the Ministry of National Defence (MND) is anticipating parliamentary ratification to purchase at least one Hisar-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) developed by Turkey. This acquisition, exceeding EUR 100 million (approximately USD 117 million), underscores Romania’s commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities.

Key Features of the Hisar-Class OPVs

The Hisar-class vessels, which include TCG Akhisar and TCG Koçhisar, were launched at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard in September 2023. Each OPV boasts impressive specifications:

• Length: 99.56 meters
• Beam: 14.42 meters
• Draught: 3.77 meters
• Displacement: approximately 2,300 tonnes

These vessels are designed based on a modified variant of the Turkish National Ship Project (Milli Gemi Projesi: MILGEM) corvette framework.

Advanced Propulsion and Endurance

The ships utilize a combined diesel-electric or diesel (CODELOD) propulsion system, incorporating:

• Four diesel generators that power
• Two electric motors which drive a pair of controllable-pitch propellers.

This propulsion configuration facilitates:

• Maximum Speed: 24 knots
• Economic Cruising Speed: 12 knots with a range of approximately 4,500 nautical miles.

Such efficiency is pivotal for maintaining continuous operational readiness over extended periods.

Versatile Operational Capabilities

The Hisar-class vessels are engineered to undertake a range of mission profiles, including:

• Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)
• Search and Rescue Operations
• Counter-Terrorism Missions
• Maritime Surveillance
• Special Operations

The construction approach of “fitted for but not with” allows for the future integration of various weapon systems and sensors, tailoring capabilities to specific operational requirements as necessitated.

Future Prospects

With the completion of these vessels and the anticipation of parliamentary approval in September, Romania is poised to enhance its maritime security posture. The integration of the Hisar-class OPVs reflects a strategic investment in modern naval assets that can address contemporary security challenges.

As Romania moves forward with this acquisition, the focus will remain on operational readiness and the ability to adapt to a fluctuating maritime environment.