Construction of the F126 frigates starts at the Peene shipyard in Wolgast. These are the largest and most expensive ships for the German navy to date.
Formerly known as the MKS 180, the units are to be built as F126-class frigates for the German navy. The Dutch shipyard group Damen Shipyards, which won the tender almost four years ago, is in charge of the multi-billion euro project. [ds_preview]
The four 166 m long frigates will cost around €6 billion. According to Damen, the first ship is due to be handed over in 2028. Numerous partners and suppliers from Germany are involved in the construction, including the Lürssen Group. The Peene shipyard is building the sterns. Blohm + Voss and Thales Netherlands are also involved.
According to the Bundeswehr, the ship class is designed as an all-purpose weapon. The ships should therefore be able to operate anywhere in the world and for long periods of time and be able to monitor embargoes or defend themselves against other warships or submarines.
