The first of 16 ARES 18 SAR vessels has been launched for Türkiye’s General Directorate of Coastal Safety
ARES Shipyard has successfully launched the first ARES 18 SAR Search and Rescue Boat developed for the General Directorate of Coastal Safety, marking a major milestone in a programme that will deliver 16 advanced rescue vessels to support maritime safety operations across Türkiye.
The launch represents significant progress in the fleet renewal initiative and further demonstrates ARES Shipyard’s capability to design and build high-performance, mission-ready platforms tailored to demanding search-and-rescue requirements.
Measuring 18.5 metres in length and constructed with an aluminium hull, the ARES 18 SAR has been engineered to deliver exceptional performance, durability and operational reliability. The vessels are being built in compliance with Türk Loydu classification rules and are intended to strengthen search-and-rescue capabilities throughout Türkiye’s maritime jurisdiction areas and the strategically important Turkish Straits.
A key achievement in the programme has been the successful completion of the Self-Righting Test by the lead vessel. The test verified the craft’s ability to recover from capsize conditions and safely continue operations, an essential capability for rescue missions conducted in challenging sea states.
The ARES 18 SAR programme reflects ARES Shipyard’s ongoing commitment to developing innovative and dependable maritime solutions that enhance safety at sea and support the operational effectiveness of maritime authorities.
