Rheinmetall Secures Multi-Million Euro Contract to Modernise German Navy Frigate BAYERN.
Rheinmetall will upgrade German Navy Frigate F 123 Frigate BAYERN.
Germany Navy Frigate BAYERN Overhaul: Rheinmetall has secured a major contract worth several hundred million euros to modernise the German Navy frigate BAYERN. Awarded at the end of the second quarter of 2026, the project aims to secure the operational readiness of the 143-metre-long vessel—which originally entered service in 1996—until at least 2035, while adapting its capabilities to meet modern tactical demands.
The vessel is currently berthed at Rheinmetall’s Neue Jadewerft shipyard in Wilhelmshaven, where major components are being carefully removed ahead of its transfer to the shipyard’s dry dock. Comprehensive modernization work will continue at the facility until 2029 as part of a dedicated service life extension program.
Upgrading Core Systems and Combat Readiness
The modernisation effort involves a total overhaul of the frigate’s essential technologies. Key upgrades include replacing the Combat Management System (CMS), overhauling critical shipboard engineering systems, and modernising the radar sensor suite. Furthermore, engineers will overhaul the propulsion and drive systems and upgrade key anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities. These sweeping measures are designed to bring the F123-class frigate up to the latest technological standards and sustainably enhance its performance for future maritime operations.
The project highlights the growing strategic importance of Rheinmetall’s service business within its Naval Systems division. Long-term maintenance, modernization, and lifecycle support form the backbone of the division’s portfolio, ensuring that complex naval assets can remain operationally viable over decades of service.
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Ensuring timely delivery and strict quality standards is a core priority for the engineering teams involved. Emphasising the shipyard’s deep maritime expertise, Tim Wagner, CEO of Rheinmetall’s Naval Systems division, noted:
“We are now fully focused on delivering the project on schedule. The Neue Jadewerft shipyard has many years of experience in the modernization and maintenance of naval vessels—particularly frigates—and possesses extensive expertise in integrating complex maritime systems. Combined with our close cooperation with all project partners and our customer, these capabilities provide the foundation for delivering the ship to the German Navy on time and to the required quality standards.”
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