Skip to content

Germany's F126 Frigate Project Future Uncertain Amid Delays and Review

Delays in Germany's F126 frigate project have led to a review of its future. Two options are on the table: a takeover by a German company or a shift to an alternative model.

3 Ships are moving in this water. At the top it's a cloudy sky.
3 Ships are moving in this water. At the top it's a cloudy sky.

Frigate Project 'Under Scrutiny' - Long Delay - Germany's F126 Frigate Project Future Uncertain Amid Delays and Review

The future of Germany's F126 frigate project remains uncertain as no decisions have been made yet on its progression. Originally planned to deliver the first ship in 2028, the project has faced significant delays due to IT interface issues reported by the current contractor, Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding B.V. The project, worth up to ten billion euros, is a key armaments initiative for the German Navy.

The delays, estimated to be around a year, have led to a review of the project, codenamed Fregatten-Projekt. Two options are currently under consideration: a takeover by a German general contractor or the acquisition of an alternative model. The potential new general contractor, if a takeover occurs, is expected to be a German company to ensure the ships are built under German management.

The Dutch government has stepped in to provide support, granting Damen a bridging loan of 270 million euros. The project aims to produce six ships designed for 'three-dimensional naval warfare' worldwide, a crucial addition to the German Navy's fleet given the current threat situation.

With the original delivery date of 2028 now uncertain, the German Navy awaits a resolution to the frigate project's future. The review process is ongoing, with the potential for a change in general contractor or a shift to an alternative model. Regardless of the outcome, the project's significance to the German Navy's capabilities remains undiminished.

Read also:

Latest