The MEKO A-200 DEU class, also known as the F128, is a frigate based on the MEKO 200.
History
Background The (F126 / MKS180) was designed as a successor to the (F123), and was intended to be used as a multi-role frigate with a focus on the anti-submarine warfare mission. In June 2020, the BAAINBw signed a contract with Damen for the design and the construction of four F126 ships. The contract was later extended to six ships, and with an entry in service in 2028.
By early 2026, the project was being delayed by problems with software compatibility between Damen (the designer and general contractor) and the shipyards (Blohm + Voss in Hamburg, and Peene-shipyard in Wolgast).
Development The German government and the German parliament prepared an interim solution that came into fruition in February 2026, when the BAAINBw signed a preliminary agreement with TKMS for the preparation of the development of the project. In February 2026, the objective is to deliver the first frigate in 2029. As part of the agreement, there is a budget of €50 million that cover initial procurement and work on the project, but no production contract was signed yet.
In March 2026, the Budget Committee of the Bundestag approved a budget increase to €240 million for this early acquisition of materials and project work for four F128 MEKO A-200 DEU.
In June 2026, the Bundeswehr officially announced that the F126 Niedersachsen-class frigate program was cancelled and that four F128 would be acquired, with a potential for four additional F128 to be purchased.
In July 2026, the Bundestag’s Budget Committee approve the procurement of four ships under strict conditions.
Design The design has been initiated in February 2026, more details on the technical choices will follow.
On 16 July 2026, Saab signed a contract with TKMS, valued at approximately SEK 8.7 billion, to equip the first 4 frigates. Under the agreement, scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2032, Saab will provide and integrate composite superstructures, 9LV Combat Management Systems, and advanced sensor arrays to enhance the fleet's warfare capabilities. The Sea Giraffe 4A FF radar is used both for long-range air surveillance and surface target surveillance, with a full horizon coverage.
Operators
Future operators The ship is being designed to answer the needs of the German Navy. As of March 2026, no other nation has shown interest in this specific variant of the MEKO family.
Ships No. Name Builder Status Contract Laid down Launched Comm. Notes - 4 planned , Bremerhaven, Germany (steel construction) TKMS (fitting out) Purchase approved - - Purchase approved - - - Purchase approved - - - Purchase approved - - -Option planned - - - - - - - - - - - -
References