German Bundestag Approves €6.3 Billion for 4 MEKO Frigates as Costs Jump 70%
Updated
Updated · Naval News · Jul 8
German Bundestag Approves €6.3 Billion for 4 MEKO Frigates as Costs Jump 70%
3 articles · Updated · Naval News · Jul 8
Summary
€6.3 billion in funding was cleared for four MEKO A-200 DEU frigates, but the Bundestag budget committee tied approval to strict oversight after costs rose about 70% from initial plans.
The Defence Ministry must report immediately on any further cost increases, contractor claims or delays, seek parliamentary consultation before extra spending, and file quarterly progress updates.
December 2029 is the target handover for the first ship, and lawmakers said contract or specification changes must not cause slippage; they also want displaced F126 subcontractors considered where possible.
TKMS said the decision clears the way for formal contract signing and called it its largest-ever surface-vessel order; an option for four more ships would cost about €5.3 billion.
The price surge reflects buying four instead of eight ships, added components including strike-length VLS launchers, subcontractor inflation, and extra Navy requirements such as stronger drone defense.