The German naval shipbuilder TKMS is working on filling its order book for frigates: A further major order could come from Brazil.
The Group, which has shipyards in Kiel, Wismar and Itajaí, Brazil, has signed a letter of intent with the Brazilian Ministry of Defense and Embraer. This concerns the potential construction of a second batch of four Tamandaré-class frigates.
The signing took place during a ceremony of the Brazilian Navy, where the frigate “Tamandaré” (F200) – the first ship of the Tamandaré-class frigate program (PFCT) – was inducted into the Brazilian fleet. In attendance were TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard and representatives of the Brazilian Navy and government, including Admiral Marcos Sampaio Olsen, Commander of the Brazilian Navy.
It is a prestigious project for the recently listed shipbuilder: the PFCT is the “most modern and innovative naval project” ever developed in Brazil, according to the company. The construction of the F200 was reportedly completed on schedule in less than four years; three more frigates are to be delivered to the Brazilian Navy by 2029.
The order book is already well-filled and worth billions; a few days ago, TKMS brought on board a new COO with experience from the Chancellery and the Federal Foreign Office in order to “ensure proper processing”. In addition to surface vessels, the shipbuilder is also working primarily on submarines. To this end, a cooperation with the Navantia shipyard was recently made public – TKMS wants to use capacities in Spain for submarine construction.
The new letter of intent should now form the basis for the continuation and expansion of the Tamandaré-class frigate program (PFCT). TKMS CEO Burkhard said: “Continuing with a new frigate batch is essential to maintain critical capabilities and preserve the knowledge gained through technology transfer under the Tamandaré program. The MoU also reflects the close cooperation between Brazil and Germany and TKMS’ long-term commitment to Brazil.”
The agreement follows a memorandum of understanding recently signed by the governments of Brazil and Germany at the Hannover Messe to begin negotiations on a new series. The aim is to contribute to the renewal of the Brazilian naval fleet and to leverage export potential from which both countries want to benefit.
Around 2,000 skilled workers are currently directly involved in the construction of the ships. Taking into account indirect and induced effects, the program is expected to create around 23,000 jobs, reflecting its strong multiplier effect on the economy.
“We have been a partner of the Brazilian Navy since the 1980s, when we jointly developed the successful Tupi-class submarines. The commissioning of the Tamandaré frigate now represents a new milestone on this journey – and TKMS is ready to continue with a second batch of four more vessels,” said Burkhard.
The Tamandaré-class frigates are based on the MEKO A-100 platform developed by TKMS. Equipped with state-of-the-art combat systems, sensors and weapons, the F200 will set a new technological and operational benchmark for the Brazilian Navy. With the delivery of the F200, Brazil joins a group of 18 navies worldwide that operate surface vessels supplied by TKMS.
