Özata Shipyards has announced the launch of the final Logistic Support Tankers of the AGEM programme for the Turkish Navy, Y-163. The Secretariat of Defence Industries (SSB) and DESAN Shipyard signed a contract in late December 2021 to construct four LSTs for the Turkish Navy. With the launch of Y-163, the fourth and final ship in the AGEM programme has met the sea. The ships have been built jointly by Özata and DESAN shipyards. The first ship was launched in July 2023. Initially, two tankers were planned with an option of two more, which was eventually added to the order. The AGEM programme aims to ensure that the refuelling needs of the Fast Patrol Boats in a possible operation and/or waiting/hiding position in the war are met safely and quickly.
The 49-meter refuelling ships can carry 200 tonnes of fuel and 39 tonnes of water and reach a speed of 15 knots. Two ships can be resupplied at the same time.
