The programme has entered its implementation phase and is the largest surface vessel contract in TKMS’s history. The first frigate is due to reach the German Navy at the end of 2029, with the remaining ships expected to follow in rapid succession under current plans.
“The Budget Committee’s decision is a strong sign of confidence in us,” said TKMS chief executive Oliver Burkhard. “We made early investments in the MEKO A-200 DEU and, together with our partners, laid the groundwork for rapid series production.”
Burkhard said the longer production run would help address an impending capability gap in the German Navy. “Now we can swiftly continue series production and thereby make an important contribution to closing as quickly as possible an impending capability gap in the German Navy,” he said.
Shipyard capacity and supply chains
The additional frigates will use the structures, processes and supply chains already established for the programme. TKMS said this would allow production to continue without fundamental changes.
The expansion also gives German shipyards and suppliers greater certainty over long-term demand. The company said that would help them plan capacity and meet the Navy’s delivery deadlines.
TKMS plans broad participation by the German maritime industry in the follow-on procurement. It is also examining how to incorporate shipyard and supplier capacity made available by the end of the F126 programme.
Any use of that capacity must comply with the customer’s contractual requirements. TKMS said meeting its commitments to the public contracting authority remains the priority.
