The ARES 35 FPB program is a large-scale force multiplier initiative aimed at significantly increasing Türkiye’s coastal law enforcement capacity. Beyond being a tactical asset, the project reflects a structural expansion of fleet density along the coastline through distributed, high-speed platforms.

Operational Purpose and Role

The primary mission set of ARES 35 FPB includes:

• Countering irregular migration
• Preventing human and narcotics trafficking
• Interdicting illegal maritime crossings
• Conducting search and rescue (SAR) missions
• Securing territorial waters and the EEZ

The platform is categorized as a rapid response and interception asset. It is designed to respond faster than larger offshore patrol vessels in near-shore and shallow-water environments.

Doctrine and Concept of Operations

ARES 35 FPB fits into a distributed coastal security doctrine based on deploying multiple small, high-speed units across wide coastal sectors. This structure:

• Reduces response time to incidents
• Increases patrol density
• Enhances flexibility against asymmetric maritime threats

This is particularly relevant in dynamic migration routes and smuggling corridors where speed and maneuverability are decisive.

Platform Architecture

The ARES 35 FPB features a planing hull form optimized for high-speed surface transit. With a length of 12 meters and a draft of 0.80 meters, it can operate effectively in:

• Shallow harbors
• Coastal inlets
• Near-shore restricted waters

The propulsion system consists of twin diesel engines. While detailed subsystem specifications are not publicly disclosed, the platform is expected to integrate:

• Surface search/navigation radar (type not publicly specified)
• Electro-optical surveillance systems (not publicly detailed)
• Standard maritime communication systems

Survivability and Protection

ARES 35 FPB is not a combat warship but a law enforcement patrol craft. Therefore:

• Ballistic protection level is not publicly disclosed
• Armor configuration is not publicly disclosed

Survivability is primarily based on high maneuverability, speed, and structural robustness for maritime operations.

Performance and Reaction Capability

With a maximum speed of 35 knots, the platform can effectively intercept high-speed small craft. A range of 160 nautical miles supports short- to medium-duration coastal patrol missions.

The small platform size enables rapid launch readiness and minimal deployment preparation time.

Integrated Ecosystem

ARES 35 FPBs are expected to operate in coordination with:

• Larger coast guard vessels
• Coastal surveillance radar networks
• Aerial assets (helicopters and UAVs)

Data link standards and tactical network integration details are not publicly disclosed.

Serial Production Scale

• 122 vessels under the main contract
• Project duration: 5 years
• Delivery target: 6 boats every two months
• Weekly launch target during peak production

Classification services are provided by Türk Loydu.

Detailed Technical Specifications

Dimensions

• Length: 12 meters
• Beam: 3.7 meters
• Draft: 0.80 meters
• Displacement: Not publicly disclosed

Propulsion

• Configuration: Twin diesel engines
• Engine model/manufacturer: Not publicly disclosed
• Propulsion type (shaft/waterjet): Not publicly disclosed

Performance

• Maximum speed: 35 knots
• Range: 160 nautical miles
• Endurance: Not publicly disclosed
• Sea state limit: Not publicly disclosed

Sensors

• Navigation radar: Available (model not disclosed)
• Surface detection capability: Mission-appropriate
• Electro-optical system: Not publicly disclosed

Armament

Weapon configuration has not been publicly detailed. Depending on mission requirements, the platform may support:

• Light machine gun mounts
• Manually operated weapon stations

Exact weapon systems are not publicly disclosed.

Command and Control

• Integration with coastal monitoring systems: Likely
• Data link standard: Not publicly disclosed

Deployment and Logistics

• Shore-based operations
• Low logistical footprint
• Small crew size (exact number not publicly disclosed)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ARES 35 FPB used for?

• It is designed for coastal law enforcement missions including anti-smuggling, irregular migration control, search and rescue, and EEZ security.

What are its speed and range?

• Maximum speed is 35 knots, with an operational range of 160 nautical miles.

What types of threats can it counter?

• It is optimized for intercepting small, high-speed boats typically used in smuggling and illegal migration activities.

Is it armed?

• The specific weapon configuration is not publicly disclosed. It can support light weapon systems depending on mission requirements.

Is it mobile or stationary?

• It is a fully mobile maritime platform deployed from coastal bases.

How many will be produced?

• The main contract covers 122 boats, with an option to increase the number.

Is it a combat warship?

• No. It is a law enforcement patrol craft designed for coastal security rather than naval combat operations.

Sources

• ARES Shipyard official announcements
• Coast Guard Command public information
• Türk Loydu classification information
• Defense industry press releases (2020–2022 period)