First F125 frigate commissioned
The first F125 Baden-Württemberg frigate built by ARGE F125 and Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems was commissioned for the German Navy on 17 June.
The newly designed class F125 ships have highly complex systems and approximately 28,000 sensors. With a very high degree of automation and the ability to remain in their operational area for up to two years, it has been possible to halve the crew size in comparison to previous German frigate classes.
The vessels are designed to carry out maritime defence operations, as well as conflict prevention, crisis management and intervention, and stabilisation operations. They can defend against offshore and onshore attacks, and are equipped with anti-aircraft systems and helicopters specially equipped for submarine hunting.
The second class F125 ship, the Nordrhein-Westfalen will also be handed over the to navy this year. The third and fourth ships will follow over the coming two years.
The ARGE F125 consortium comprises Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems as the lead company and Fr Lürssen Werft in Bremen. The pre-fitted bow sections are being manufactured at the shipyards of the Lürssen Group in Bremen and Wolgast. Construction of the stern sections, the joining of the two sections and further fitting out was being carried out at Blohm+Voss Shipyards in Hamburg under the leadership of Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders]()
Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders
Turkish shipbuilders have sold ships from Asia to Europe, but autonomy and swarm technology could give them a fairer fight against Western European rivals.
-
![Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq]()
Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq
The Canadian Department of National Defence is evaluating communications and reconnaissance changes for CCGS Imnaryuaq’s expanded maritime security role, while retaining its 2032 acceptance target.
-
![All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids]()
All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids
Responses are due by 29 October as the Royal Navy tests the market, with BAE Systems’ Herne and MSubs’ Excalibur setting up a contest where payloads may decide the winner.
-
![US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests]()
US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests
Boeing has outlined its upcoming precision-landing and carrier-airspace trials as MQ-25 manufacturing shifts towards Illinois, with initial Lot 1 deliveries expected in 2029.
