Germany sinks F126 frigate programme in favour of cheaper MEKO A-200
The F126 programme led by Damen was scrapped after delays and rising costs. (Photo: Damen)
On 24 June 2026, the German Ministry of Defence announced it was cancelling the F126 frigate programme in favour of procuring eight MEKO A-200 DEU frigates.
Berlin has finally come to a decision on the long-delayed F126 frigate programme. On 24 June, it decided to cancel the anti-submarine warfare frigate programme, citing the significant delays and constantly rising costs as the main reasons for the decision. The German Ministry of Defence (BMVg) has said will now put forward a proposal to acquire eight MEKO A-200 DEU multi-purpose frigates as an alternative.
The Bundeswehr estimates that the procurement cost for the first four vessels will be €6.3 billion (US$7.15 billion), with an option for a further four, expected to be exercised at the end of 2026, costing slightly
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Schiebel’s frigate-first strategy indicates a shift in UAV competition]()
Eurosatory 2026: Schiebel’s frigate-first strategy indicates a shift in UAV competition
Schiebel is pursuing opportunities in the UK and France while leveraging its integration with Naval Group’s FDI frigate programme to create new naval business across Europe.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Red Cat eyes South American market for USV-led EEZ surveillance]()
Eurosatory 2026: Red Cat eyes South American market for USV-led EEZ surveillance
Success with the US Army’s Black Widow programme may have strengthened Red Cat’s international position, but executives believe the next growth opportunity lies in uncrewed surface vessels.
-
![How Canada plans to use the River-class programme to revitalise its defence industry]()
How Canada plans to use the River-class programme to revitalise its defence industry
The Canadian DND estimates that the construction of destroyers will annually inject C$720 million (US$515 million) into the country’s GDP.
