Damen, DNV Sign Classification & Verification Contract for Germany’s Upcoming F126 Frigates

Damen Naval and German ship classification society DNV, signed a contract for the comprehensive classification and verification of the new F126 frigates that a Damen-led team is building  for the German Navy.

Following the signing of the contract on June 7 at the DNV Maritime headquarters at its German office, DNV will carry out extensive work and conduct in-depth ship verifications and surveys in Hamburg, Wolgast and Kiel throughout the duration of the project.

This will include support in defining the so-called “schedule of performance” certificates and in interpreting the building specifications and documents. DNV will also provide support with regard to the approval of the design and construction of the multi-purpose combat ships.

Damen Naval is building the four frigates (plus a possible two optional extra) together with its partners Blohm+Voss and Thales after the partners were selected as successful bidders in 2020 as the result of a European invitation to tender spanning several years.

The first ship is expected to be delivered to the German Navy in Hamburg in 2028. All building work will be carried out in Germany; in Hamburg, Kiel and Wolgast.

After the signing, Hein van Ameijden, managing director of Damen Naval, said, “Together we will ensure that standards and safety levels on the frigates meet the most stringent requirements in the interests of the sailors who will be serving on board. When carrying out their duties, they should be safe in the knowledge that they have the very best materials to hand.”

Over the last 20 years DNV has provided support in the plan approval of designs, inspection and survey of newbuilding, and the verification and certification of many German combat units (frigates, corvettes, support ships and submarines). In addition, DNV has provided technical assurance, through classification services for new-build, surveys during drydocking periods, and inspections during sea trials, to the non-military crewed vessels of the Bundeswehr since the1970s.