Introducing the F126 Frigate Project

In June 2020, after a multi-year European competitive tender process, Damen Naval and the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) signed a contract for the design and construction of four MKS 180 multi-purpose combat ships for the German Navy. Later that year, the ship was reclassified as the Frigate Class 126 (F126).

Global operations

With a length of 166 metres and a displacement of up to 10,000 tonnes, the F126 frigates will be the largest in the German naval fleet. These will be capable of operating in all latitudes ; from the tropics all the way to polar regions. Damen’s highly automated and low maintenance design will allow the German Navy to operate the ship continuously with a core crew of 114 (rotating every four months) for up to two years.

One design – multiple uses

The F126 frigate will be a flexible multi-mission platform; one type of vessel that can be utilized in a variety of situations. This will be achieved by modularity. Depending on the specific needs of the German Navy, dedicated mission modules can be installed when needed. Damen is designing the modules so that they can be interchanged without the need for a lengthy commissioning period.

Armament

• Oto Leonardo
• Nsm
• Rheinmetall MASS (Decoy launchers)
• RIM-116 AA missiles
• Sm-3

Gallery

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