The German Ministry of Defense has contracted NVL Group to build three Type 424 intelligence-gathering vessels (AGIs) for the German Navy.
The vessels are intended to replace the Type 423 Oste-class AGIs, which have been in service since the 1980s.
First Ship in 2029
The estimated 3.26-billion euro ($3.62 billion) contract includes a shore-based reconnaissance training and reference facility, expected to be delivered to the navy in 2027.
The first ship is expected to be inducted in 2029, with the next two in successive years.
Expected Features
The vessels will be deployed for electronic intelligence and signals intelligence missions, featuring surface and underwater reconnaissance capabilities, a self-protection suite, command and control, and an extremely low-noise propulsion system.
The Cyber and Information Domain Service and the Strategic Reconnaissance Command are expected to operate the 132-meter (433 feet) platforms.
“Technologically it is a very exciting and forward-looking project and we are therefore very pleased to be able to enter the implementation phase,” said NVL Group CEO Tim Wagner.
“This order will be considered by us general contractor with the support of various partners and sub-suppliers from the maritime branch and the system technology implemented to the Federal Republic of Germany with the now commissioned military capabilities.”