The Federal Ministry of Defence has officially cancelled the F126 frigate project. The ministry stated on Wednesday that the cancellation was due to significant delays, expected cost increases, and the risks associated with switching general contractors. As an alternative, the focus will now be on purchasing eight MEKO frigates that are primarily intended for anti-submarine warfare.
The defense ministry explained that Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding, which was originally contracted as the primary contractor, failed to meet the established timelines and financial requirements. The planned cost for the six F126 frigates was estimated at around ten billion euros. However, the Ministry of Defence noted that moving to a new general contractor would have increased the costs to over 18 billion euros, and the Federal government would have had to waive contractual claims for damages against the current contractor.
The Inspector of the Navy confirmed that the MEKO A-200 DEU frigates meet the requirements of the German Navy for submarine hunting and can fulfill NATO obligations. The procurement price for the initial four frigates is projected to be approximately 6.3 billion euros, pending approval from the Budget Committee, with an option to acquire a further four ships by the end of 2026 for about 5.3 billion euros.
