Turkey has officially launched the first Ada-class corvette ordered by the Ukrainian Navy for maritime surveillance and naval gunfire support.
A ceremony was held during a visit by Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska and Navy commander Oleksiy Neyizhpapa to Istanbul.
Named after Ukrainian Cossack leader Ivan Mazepa, the corvette was part of a 2020 deal between Turkey and Ukraine to deliver at least four of the stealth vessels.
Corvette "Hetman Ivan Mazepa" of the @UA_NAVY was launched!@ZelenskaUA became the godmother of the ship.
It is being built in 🇹🇷 and will serve 🇺🇦. With a ship like this, our Black and Azov seas will be safe.
P.S. The future base port is Ukrainian Sevastopol. pic.twitter.com/B1O1uQfiLa— Oleksii Reznikov (@oleksiireznikov) October 2, 2022
The launch comes as Kyiv continues to push back Russian occupation of Ukrainian territories.
“Today in Turkey, I had the honor of launching a corvette that will serve Ukraine and at the same time have a Turkish heart,” Zelenska remarked during the event. “Ada-class corvette Hetman Ivan Mazepa will be the first ship of this class for the Ukrainian Navy.”
The Turkish-built ship is expected to arrive in Ukraine in 2024.
Ada-Class Corvette Features
Developed by RMK Marine, the Ada-class corvette is a 99-meter ship that can carry two S70 Seahawk helicopters.
It features electro-optical sensors, a torpedo detection/countermeasure capability, a laser warning system, and two 12.7-millimeter guns.
The vessel has a maximum speed of 29 knots (53.7 kilometers/ 33.3 miles per hour) and can travel up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,500 kilometers/4,040 miles).
The corvette can locate, classify, identify, and neutralize air, surface, and underwater targets.
It can also perform patrol missions and coastal and infrastructure protection.
“Hetman Ivan Mazepa corvette, today I am launching you. I wish you luck and success for my country and my people,” Zelenska said.
“Fly the Ukrainian flag with honor. Fair winds, calm seas, and only victories! Always remember your Turkish homeland and bring glory to Ukraine!”
