The German Federal Ministry of Defence is allocating significant budget to improve its anti‑submarine warfare capabilities. Because the delivery of the F126 frigates-designed specifically for hunting submarines-is expected to be delayed, the ministry is simultaneously pursuing a four‑ship order of MEKO A‑200 frigates as a “bridge solution”.
Providing these MEKO A‑200s from the end of 2029 will also help the country meet NATO’s submarine‑hunting commitments on schedule. The dual‑track approach, involving both the F126 and the MEKO, is intended mainly to address security and risk mitigation and does not prejudice the continued procurement of the F126, the ministry said on Wednesday.
On the same day, the Budget Committee approved a first amendment contract extending the pre‑contract signed on 28 January. The amendment allows the manufacturer to reserve production capacities at subcontractors and suppliers and to order materials, facilities and equipment.
The ministry explained that the extension is necessary because the preparations for a definitive construction contract are not yet complete. The required interim steps-issuance of the call for proposals, evaluation of bids, price checks, formal contract drafting, and preparation for parliamentary scrutiny-will be carried out carefully and as swiftly as possible.
Construction of the F126 class frigates by the Dutch general contractor has been substantially delayed. Negotiations are currently underway with NVL as a potential new general contractor for the project. Against this backdrop, market‑available MEKO A‑200 DEU frigates have been identified as a bridge solution and complement. The delivery of the first ship is industry‑level projected for December 2029, and MEKO ships are in service with many navies worldwide.