Germany’s MEKO A-200 frigate program moves a step ahead

Image: TKMS

TKMS (formerly ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems) reports that the German Bundestag’s Budget Committee this month approved the procurement of four MEKO A-200 DEU-class frigates, along with an option to procure additional vessels. This clears the way for the formal signing of the contract. The first frigate will be delivered to the German Navy as early as 2029. This is the largest surface vessels contract in TKMS’s history.

“We welcome today’s approval by the German Bundestag’s Budget Committee of the procurement of four MEKO A-200 DEU-class frigates, as well as the option outlined in the resolution to procure additional MEKO A-200 DEU vessels. This decision is an important step toward strengthening the capabilities of the German Navy,” said Oliver Burkhard, CEO of TKMS, adding: “We are aware of our responsibility to build these ships very quickly due to the security situation, as stipulated in the contracts. We will now address this together with our industry partners from across Germany. Timeline delivery is a key factor for us here.”

Intended to strengthen the German Navy’s capabilities, particularly in anti-submarine warfare, the frigate is based on what TKMS says is an internationally proven, cost-efficient, and scalable ship design.

In recent months, says TKMS, important preparatory work for the construction of the ships has already been completed, laying the groundwork for the rapid implementation of the project.

SAAB ON BOARD

Today, Saab reported that it has signed a contract with TKMS and received an order to deliver and integrate combat systems, composite structures and sensors onto four of the new frigates. The order value is approximately SEK 8.7 billion and Saab’s deliveries to TKMS will take place between 2029 and 2032.

“It is with great pride that we continue to build on our long and strong relationship and commitment to Germany and the Bundeswehr, while together with TKMS strengthening the German Navy. These deliveries will significantly enhance the Navy’s anti-air-, anti-submarine- and anti-surface warfare capabilities,” said Micael Johansson, CEO and president of Saab.

SAAB’s order comprises equipping the frigates with composite superstructures, 9LV Combat Systems including the Fire Control System and Combat Management System, sensors such as the long-range surveillance radar Sea Giraffe 4A fixed face, the lightweight multi-mission surveillance radar Sea Giraffe 1X, as well as passive sensors.

• More on the MEKO A-200 frigate HERE