Germany cancels F126 frigate program, opts for MEKO A200

The German government has terminated its largest naval procurement project since World War II, canceling the planned construction of six F126 frigates due to significant delays and massive cost overruns. The decision, confirmed by the Defense Ministry on Wednesday, represents a severe blow to defense contractor Rheinmetall and marks a major shift in the country's naval modernization plans.

The ministry cited significant delays, enormous cost increases, and incalculable risks as the reasons for ending the program. Continuing with the six F126 frigates would have driven total costs above 18 billion euros, a substantial increase from the original estimate of roughly 10 billion euros for the entire project. More than 2 billion euros had already been spent on design work, software development, and initial construction.

Instead, Berlin will procure eight smaller MEKO A200 frigates built by Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). The first four vessels are expected to cost approximately 6.3 billion euros, with an option to purchase four more for about 5.3 billion euros. The first delivery is scheduled for 2029. Inspector of the Navy, Vice Admiral Jan Christian Kaack, stated these ships...