Damen Starts Constructing First F126 Frigate for German Navy

Damen Shipyards and project partner NVL Group marked the commencement of the construction phase for the German F126 frigates by cutting the first steel at the Peene shipyard in Wolgast on December 5.

Initiated in June 2020, the F126 project involves the construction of four F126 frigates, with an option for two additional vessels.

The F126 frigates, with a length of 166 meters and a displacement of up to 10,000 tonnes, will be the largest in the German naval fleet. Designed as versatile multi-mission platforms, these frigates can operate globally in various conditions, from tropical climates to polar regions.

The construction of the F126 frigates involves collaboration with various partners, including Lockheed Martin for MK 41 Vertical Launching Systems, Hensoldt and Thales for TRS-4D naval radar, and Rheinmetall for MLG27-4.0 defence systems.

The delivery of the first ship is scheduled for 2028.