The Ministry of National Defence announced the keel-laying of PINARHİSAR, an Open Ocean Patrol Vessel (OOPV) of the HİSAR class, during the 100th anniversary ceremony of Gölcük Shipyard Command on October 14. The ceremony was attended by the Commander of Naval Forces and Deputy Minister of Defence Salih Ayhan, the Governor of Kocaeli, the Fleet Commander, and the Gölcük Shipyard Commander. During the event, the Rescue Boat Workshop Building and Rotating Mast Workshop were commissioned, the National Submarine (MİLDEN) Composite Hull Construction Line was modernized, and the Stone Basin Project was initiated.

The HİSAR-class Open Ocean Patrol Vessel program addresses the Turkish Naval Forces' requirement for modern patrol platforms. Conducted under the prime contractor ASFAT, the program encompasses the construction of a total of 10 vessels. The class's first vessel, TCG AKHİSAR, was exported to Romania and entered the Romanian Naval Forces inventory as Contraamiral August Roman. The second vessel, TCG KOÇHİSAR, was delivered to the Turkish Naval Forces Command on June 20, 2026, and is now in active service.

HİSAR-class vessels are comparable to ADA-class corvettes in size but differ significantly in mission profile and equipment. Notably, they employ a CODELOD (Combined Diesel or Diesel-Electric) propulsion system, offering extended endurance and superior fuel efficiency compared to the CODAG-equipped ADA class. This system allows the use of an electric motor powered by smaller diesel generators alongside the main engine, reducing operational costs. The modular design enables weapon load and equipment to be modified or increased as required.

Open ocean patrol vessels are designed to conduct extended operations against asymmetric threats. While ADA-class corvettes play an intensive role in anti-submarine warfare, HİSAR-class vessels perform counter-smuggling and maritime presence missions at lower cost during peacetime. During periods of tension, these platforms can provide support to major combat vessels. The international defense industry favors CODELOD systems for similar mission profiles, demonstrating that the design aligns with global standards.

The project represents a significant indigenization achievement for Turkish defense industry. The design and construction of these platforms by domestic organizations such as ASFAT and Gölcük Shipyard strengthens national maritime technology capabilities. The export to Romania demonstrates that Turkish naval platforms are internationally competitive and accepted in the global market. The production of 10 vessels under the program will substantially enhance the Turkish Naval Forces' patrol capability and provide long-term employment at the shipyard.