Poland is working flat out to implement the largest shipbuilding program in the history of its navy. Against this backdrop, the steel cutting for another “Miecznik” class frigate took place at the PGZ Stocznia Wojenna shipyard in Gdynia.
The frigate, named “Burza” (Thunderstorm), is the second of three ships to be built as part of the “Miecznik” program.
“Today’s steel cutting ceremony for the future frigate ‘Burza’ is another important step in the implementation of the largest shipbuilding program in the history of the Polish Navy. PGZ Stocznia Wojenna is well prepared for this challenge – we have modernized our infrastructure and are continuously expanding the competences of our team,” said Marcin Ryngwelski, President of the Management Board of PGZ Stocznia Wojenna.
Miecznik frigates based on British design
The “Miecznik” program is being implemented by the PGZ-MIECZNIK consortium with the support of partners from Great Britain. The frigates being built are based on the British Arrowhead 140 design and will reportedly meet the requirements for the further development of the Polish Navy’s capabilities in the areas of surveillance and control of sea areas, base protection, engagement of targets at sea, underwater and on land, and maritime air defense.
The first unit – “Wicher” – is currently under construction and its launch is scheduled for the second half of 2026. The ship is scheduled to enter service in 2029. The entire program, which provides for the delivery of three frigates, should be completed by the end of 2031.
“Miecznik” frigates reach 28 knots
The multi-purpose frigates of the “Miecznik” type will have a length of around 138 meters, a width of around 20 meters and a maximum displacement of around 7,000 tons. The ships will reach a maximum speed of 28 knots and have a range of around 8,000 nautical miles. Each unit will be equipped with four diesel engines in the CODAD system and two controllable pitch propellers, and the crew will consist of 120 people and around 60 additional crew members.
