Saab To Power German Navy With Cutting-Edge Combat Systems On New Frigates

Saab to Equip German Navy’s New F128 Frigates with Advanced Combat Systems

In a significant contract win for Swedish defense company Saab, the firm has been awarded an order to deliver and integrate cutting-edge combat systems, composite structures, and sensors onto four of Germany’s new MEKO A-200 DEU class frigates. The deal, valued at approximately SEK 8.7 billion (around $930 million), is expected to bolster the naval defense capabilities of Germany’s Bundeswehr.

Saab secured the contract through its long-standing partnership with TKMS, the German naval defense company responsible for producing and maintaining the frigates. Deliveries are scheduled between 2029 and 2032, marking an important milestone in Saab’s continued commitment to supporting Germany’s military efforts.

The MEKO A-200 DEU class frigates feature state-of-the-art stealth capabilities and enhanced survivability features. The contract with TKMS aims to further enhance the naval vessels’ combat effectiveness by integrating Saab’s comprehensive suite of systems, including the 9LV Combat Systems, Fire Control System (FCS), and Combat Management System (CMS).

Saab’s 9LV Combat Systems provide a robust and integrated combat management system, enabling effective detection, tracking, and engagement of aerial and surface targets. Additionally, Saab’s deliveries will include composite superstructures, which enhance the frigates’ survivability and reduce their radar cross-section.

The German Navy’s new F128 frigates will be equipped with cutting-edge sensors, including the long-range surveillance radar Sea Giraffe 4A Fixed Face and the lightweight multi-mission surveillance radar Sea Giraffe 1X. These advanced sensors provide unparalleled situational awareness for the frigates’ crews, enabling them to detect and respond to threats more effectively.

Saab’s contract with TKMS includes an option for integrating and equipping additional frigates, highlighting the company’s commitment to supporting Germany’s naval defense strategy over the long term. This option is seen as a significant endorsement of Saab’s capabilities and its ability to adapt its systems to meet evolving customer needs.

In comments on the contract, Micael Johansson, CEO and President of Saab, expressed his pride in continuing the company’s relationship with Germany and the Bundeswehr. He noted that the deliveries will significantly enhance the German Navy’s anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare capabilities, emphasizing the importance of Saab’s systems in supporting the country’s naval defense strategy.

The contract is also seen as a significant boost for Saab’s Sabbertillan program, a comprehensive suite of combat management systems designed for the 9LV Combat System. Sabbertillan represents a major step forward in Saab’s capabilities, providing customers with a highly integrated and adaptable combat system capable of supporting a wide range of operational requirements.

The partnership between Saab and TKMS highlights the importance of collaboration in driving innovation and delivering effective solutions to complex military challenges. The contract underscores Saab’s commitment to working closely with its customers to understand their needs and deliver tailored solutions that meet those requirements.

Saab’s recent contract win to equip Germany’s new F128 frigates represents a significant milestone for the Swedish defense company. The integration of advanced combat systems, composite structures, and sensors will significantly enhance the naval vessels’ combat effectiveness, supporting Germany’s naval defense strategy over the long term.

Original Source

• Read the full article here