Germany gives green light to Type F127 frigate program

The Budget Committee of the German Bundestag has approved the construction of new Type F127 air defense frigates for the German Navy.

German shipbuilder thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) will play a leading role in the development and production of the Type F127. The company established a joint venture with compatriot NVL Group to work on the construction of the future F127 frigates in September this year.

Now, the German Bundestag approved the €25 million proposal, paving the way for the F127 project. This decision marks the start of planning for the next generation of sea-based air defense, according to TKMS.

The new vessels will be based on the market-ready MEKO A-400 AMD design. TKMS highlighted that the F127 frigate design extends existing capability profiles with an improved energy supply for future weapon and command systems. Additionally, a new type of hull will offer more space for the installation of missiles and a higher cruising speed for multinational task forces.

Equipped with a range of advanced defense missiles, the ships will be capable of countering aerial threats and engaging multiple targets at unprecedented ranges using long-range missiles. Furthermore, the Type F127s will be versatile enough to take on sea and land targets, as well as conduct anti-submarine operations. By incorporating systems that align with NATO standards, the ships will help ensure “seamless integration and cooperation within NATO’s transatlantic strategy”, as emphasized by TKMS.

The Type F127 frigates will replace the F124 frigates, which will need to be retired in the early 2030s.

“This sends a clear signal of Germany’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities and fulfilling its international obligations,” TKMS stated.

The German Navy wants the first ship to be ready for deployment in 2034, according to TKMS.

The announcement comes on the back of a recent signing of a contract between the German government and TKMS for the construction of four more submarines in the Type 212CD program.