Rheinmetall wins contract to modernize German Navy F123 frigate

Published Jul 30, 07:11 AM UTC

Rheinmetall has been awarded a major contract to modernize the German Navy's F123 class frigate BAYERN (F217), extending its operational service life through at least 2035. The contract, valued in the mid-three-digit million euro range, was awarded at the end of the second quarter of 2026. The modernization will take place at Rheinmetall's Neue Jadewerft shipyard in Wilhelmshaven and is scheduled for completion by 2029. Key upgrades include replacement of the Combat Management System (CMS), overhaul of shipboard engineering systems, modernization of the radar sensor suite, overhaul of propulsion and drive systems, and upgrades to anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities. The frigate, which entered service in 1996, is currently berthed at the shipyard where major components are being removed before transfer to dry dock. Tim Wagner, CEO of Rheinmetall's Naval Systems division, emphasized the company's focus on delivering the project on schedule.