German naval shipbuilder TKMS has selected Saab to supply key combat systems and sensors for the German Navy’s new MEKO A-200 DEU-class frigates under a contract valued at 8.7 billion Swedish kronor ($900 million). The agreement covers four frigates scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2032 and includes an option for another four vessels.
Under the deal, Saab will provide composite superstructures, its 9LV Combat System with integrated Combat Management and Fire Control Systems, Sea Giraffe 4A Fixed Face and Sea Giraffe 1X radar systems, as well as passive sensor equipment to equip the frigates.
The contract follows the German Parliament’s Budget Committee approval of a €6.3 billion ($7.2 billion) procurement for four MEKO A-200 DEU frigates. Germany also retains an option to acquire four additional ships worth approximately €5.3 billion ($6.06 billion). The acquisition replaces the canceled F126 frigate program, which Berlin terminated in June after ongoing challenges.
Designed as a scalable and cost-effective multi-mission platform, the MEKO A-200 DEU measures 121 meters in length and displaces around 3,950 metric tons at full load. Optimized for anti-submarine warfare, the frigate is crewed by 125 personnel with capacity for 49 more, reaches speeds above 29 knots, and has an operational range exceeding 6,500 nautical miles. The platform also supports two mission modules, up to two medium helicopters or one heavy helicopter with two UAVs, and two rigid-hulled inflatable boats for a variety of naval operations.
