Germany May Scrap Multibillion-Euro Frigate Program

Germany plans to scrap a delayed multibillion-euro project to build F126 frigates, the Financial Times reported, in a move that could deal a blow to Rheinmetall’s hopes of securing its biggest contract.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and other officials have informed industry executives and senior lawmakers of their intention to abandon plans to build six F126 frigates, the report said, citing two people familiar with the matter.

Berlin instead intends to buy eight smaller MEKO A-200 frigates from rival warship builder TKMS, according to the report.

The German Ministry of Defense and Rheinmetall did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comment.

Rheinmetall was poised to sign a contract to take over the F126 frigate program from Dutch shipbuilder Damen in the second quarter, CEO Armin Papperger said last month. The F126 frigates are capable of striking targets above and under water.

(Reuters, mja)