BERLIN - The German Defense Ministry has set aside a budget of around EUR4 billion for the procurement of four new multi-purpose naval combat vessels tentatively referred to as MKS 180 warships. Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen has stated the contract will be issued via open tender, allowing European shipyards to compete for the work. Once a winning bid is selected and a contract inked the new ships will be expected for delivery beginning in 2023. Included in any contract will be an option for an additional two warships - an option unlikely to be acted upon until 2023.
The latest announcement presents an opportunity for German shipyards such as Lurssen, which is currently involved in constructing the F-125 frigates for the German Navy.
More importantly, however, is the recognition in defense circles and the government that the MKS 180 project presents a crucial element in bolstering the size of the German Navy's surface combatant fleet up to 22 ships post-2020 as per a military restructuring plan outline put forth in mid-2011.
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