The completion of the construction of six F126-class frigates "Lower Saxony" (Niedersachsen) for the German Navy has been postponed until at least 2030. This was reported on May 24 by the German newspaper Kieler Nachrichten, citing sources.
It is noted that the contractor (the Dutch shipbuilding company Damen Naval) was dissatisfied with the terms of the contract, according to which at least 70% of the order should be implemented at German shipyards.
According to the publication, four frigates were ordered in 2020, and two more in 2024. The total cost was approximately € 9 billion. They were supposed to be launched by 2028.
Neither representatives of the German Navy nor representatives of Damen Naval commented on the situation, the newspaper added.