The construction of the future German frigate class is making good progress. The client and shipyard are cooperating at a high level.
The F 126 project - formerly MKS 180 - reached the most important milestone in its realisation to date on 19 June 2020 after a multi-year tendering process in a European competition: the conclusion of the construction contract with Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding. The project is currently focussing on the ongoing construction work. These are expected to progress to such an extent that production can begin at the end of 2023 and the keel can be laid for the first ship at the beginning of 2024.
The construction contract provides for the procurement of four units as well as an option for two further units to cover the conceptual requirement of six units in total. The option is contractually anchored in such a way that a decision to procure the fifth and sixth units can be implemented without delay.
Access?
- Access to all articles from the marineforum magazine
- Easy payment via PayPal, direct debit or credit card
- The subscription can be cancelled at any time free of charge
- Free of charge for MOV members
English 
German
When I compare this ship with the Chinese Type 052D (Luyang III class), I get a bit pensive...
Armament
1 × 130 mm gun
1 × 30 mm close-range defence system
2 × VLS with 32 cells
1 × launcher for 24 anti-aircraft missiles
6 × torpedoes in two triple torpedo tubes
1 × Z-9C or Ka-27 helicopter