While the focus of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ acquisitions has been on land and air domains, the naval sector continues to pursue various programs aimed at regaining surface capabilities lost both in the early stages of the invasion and after decades of underinvestment. One such program involves Turkey, which, through its shipyards, is constructing two new Mazepa-class corvettes for the Ukrainian Navy.
Based on the design of Turkey’s Ada-class corvettes (part of the MILGEM Project), the Mazepa-class currently comprises two ships being built at the RMK Marine shipyard. Key specifications include a displacement of 2,400 tons, a length of 99.56 meters, and a beam of 14.40 meters.
In an official video released by Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, it was reported that the first vessel, named Hetman Ivan Mazepa (F211), is progressing through trials involving navigation, combat systems, and weaponry.
The trials, conducted at an undisclosed location, are believed to have taken place in the Sea of Marmara. They were carried out by personnel from Turkish companies involved in the project, such as STM, which serves as the program supervisor. The video shows the corvette performing live-fire tests with both its primary and secondary armament.
Notable tests included the use of the main cannon, an OTO Melara Super Rapid 76 mm, against simulated ground targets in naval fire support missions. Additionally, the corvette’s close-in weapon systems (CIWS) were tested, including the ASELSAN GÖKDENIZ 35 mm anti-aircraft system and a remote-controlled weapon station.
Although no further details were provided, it is likely that in the coming weeks, the Hetman Ivan Mazepa will undergo additional trials to assess the rest of its combat systems. These are expected to include vertical launch systems (VLS), which are presumably equipped with MBDA’s VL MICA missiles.
Regarding the second ship in the class, named Hetman Ivan Vyhovskyi, it was launched during an official ceremony at the RMK Marine shipyard in early August. It is believed that this corvette is nearing completion, with equipment installation on the superstructure and final adjustments underway. Once this phase is complete, the ship is expected to begin its sea trials at a yet-to-be-announced date.
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