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.
Turkish Navy ships passing through Bosphorus (AFP Photo)
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.
Corvette TCG Burgazada entering the port of Croatia/Port of Split back in Nov. 2024 (Photo via X @tcsavunma)
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.
Croatia Defense Minister Ivan Anusic and Baykar CEO Haluk Bayraktar (AA Photo)
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 capabilityRedundancy philosophySea Keeping and StabilityIR signature monitoring systemHigh durability and disturbed sensors & weapons in response to fires and damages.Stealth design and low radar cross-sectionReduces underwater noise against threats and degaussing systemStealth design and low radar cross sectionCapabilities & competencies of Ada Class Corvettes
PNS BABUR (280), the first corvette under the Pakistan MILGEM Project (L) and TCG Istanbul (F-515), Türkiye’s first national frigate (R) (AA Photo)
3D Search RadarHull Mounted SonarE/O SensorsTorpedo Detection / CountermeasureF/C RadarsLaser Warning SystemLPI RadarElectronic Support SystemSSM (HARPOON)2 x 12.7 mm Gun (E/O Capability)RAMDecoy SystemSensors and weapons of Ada Class Corvettes
TCG Kinaliada, one of the other Ada-class corvettes that the Turkish Navy operates (AA Photo)
Length Overall: 99.44 metersMaximum Speed: 29+ knotsLength Waterline: 90.55 metersCruise Speed: 15 knotsBeam Max: 14.42 metersHelicopter Platform & Hangar Capacity: To carry 2 x S70 Seahawk helicopters (One in the hangar and one on the platform)Draught: 3.59 metersMain Propulsion: CODAG 2x shafts and CPP propellersDisplacement: 2400 tons Power Generation: 4 x diesel generatorHelicopter Platform & Hangar Capacity: To carry 2 x S70 Seahawk helicopters, (One in the hangar and one on the platform)Ship’s Boats: 2 x RHIBAccommodation: Comfortable accommodation for 86 crewGrowth Capabilities: Custom Sensors & Weapons and higher accommodation Features of Ada Class Corvettes