Starting signal for MEKO A-200 DEU: The Kiel shipyard TKMS and the responsible federal office have signed the preliminary contract for the new frigate project. The first ship is to be delivered by 2029.
The preliminary agreement concluded today between TKMS and the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) enables the start of central preparatory measures for the MEKO A-200 DEU project. The contract partners intend to begin this before the end of February.
As soon as the actual construction contract is concluded in a timely manner, the first frigate is to be delivered to the federal government by the end of 2029.
“The preliminary contract lays the foundation for the immediate project ramp-up,” said Oliver Juckenhöfel, Executive Vice President Surface Vessels at TKMS. “In particular, the contract enables us to procure materials and start steel work at the shipyard immediately.”
This preliminary contract covers procurement and work with a volume of up to €50 million until the end of March, TKMS announced. It will also be possible to extend the contract in stages if necessary.
With the signing, the MEKO A-200 DEU project has officially begun. However, this is not yet linked to a construction contract; according to TKMS, a decision on this is still pending.
The construction of the MEKO A-200 frigates is part of a new dual strategy by the German government to procure new frigates for the navy. Originally, the F126 program was to be implemented by German Naval Yards in cooperation with the Dutch Damen Group. After planning difficulties and mainly due to time constraints, TKMS came into play as an alternative. According to the current status, a combination of both programs should cover the navy’s needs. “We are not giving up on the F126,” said Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. “But we want to run on two tracks.” (JW)
