COLOGNE, Germany — The German Navy is set to acquire four MEKO frigates from the local shipbuilder ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) as an interim measure to enhance its submarine-hunting capabilities. This decision comes as the main project for the F126 specialized ships is experiencing delays.
Interim Naval Strategy
German defense authorities in Berlin have confirmed a preliminary agreement with TKMS, which was endorsed by the parliament on Wednesday. This arrangement is described as a temporary solution to guarantee that the naval forces receive the critically needed anti-submarine warfare (ASW) vessels by late 2029, aligning with NATO obligations.
Concerns Over F126 Frigates
The acquisition plan arises amidst growing concerns regarding the six F126 frigates, formerly referred to as MKS-180, which were initially commissioned from the Dutch shipbuilder Damen in 2020. The contract, potentially worth up to $10 billion, sparked considerable debate within Germany over the decision to contract a foreign company, even one from a closely allied neighbor like the Netherlands.
Damen had committed to constructing the frigates within Germany, with plans to subcontract 70% of the contract’s value to German suppliers.
Progress on F126 Frigates
The construction of the first ship in this new class of 10,550-ton frigates commenced in December 2023 with the initial steel cutting at the Peene shipyard in Wolgast, Germany. This phase was followed by a keel-laying ceremony in June 2024, which was attended by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.
Despite the new orders for MEKO A-200 DEU ships, the German Defense Ministry has clarified that this does not signify the cancellation of the F126 program. Negotiations are ongoing with NVL, or Naval Vessels Lürssen, to potentially take over as the main contractor. This company, recently acquired by the defense conglomerate Rheinmetall, markets itself as a prominent, independently operated group comprising notable North German shipyards and associated enterprises.
Damen’s Role Going Forward
Damen has indicated its willingness to proceed under German leadership, although the Dutch firm intends to remain a key partner in the project. This position was affirmed in Damen’s annual financial report released in October 2025.
This article includes contributions from Rudy Ruitenberg in Paris.
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Jamal Peterson reports on defense, aerospace, and tech policy. With a military background and a strategic mind, he dissects complex subjects with clarity, offering readers sharp, reliable insights.
