Germany’s thyssenkrupp Marine Systems has signed a deal with Saab Australia to explore collaboration opportunities on the MEKO A-200 frigate platform.
The companies’ partnership will focus on enhancing the frigate’s capabilities, including Saab’s Australian Combat System (AusCMS) already in service across the Royal Australian Navy’s surface fleet.
Work on the AusCMS will bolster the warship’s training, sustainment, and operational functions, ultimately contributing to the Australian defense industry’s sovereign capability.
The agreement will allow the companies to provide mature, low-risk, and proven solutions for future naval requirements for platforms such as the Royal Australian Navy (RAN)’s SEA 3000 general-purpose frigate program.
“This MoU with Saab Australia reflects our proven approach to naval shipbuilding and long term collaboration with trusted partners,” thyssenkrupp Operating Unit Surface Vessels executive vice president Oliver Juckenhöfel said.
“We are proud to contribute to a robust and sovereign naval capability through a model that has proven successful across multiple navies,” he added.
Modernizing Australia’s Fleet
Aside from delivering the RAN’s Anzac-class frigates, thyssenkrupp has also worked with Canberra’s new collaborators for the future sustainment of some of the fleet’s capabilities.
The company is currently working closely with maritime engineering firm BMT Group to significantly reduce platform-related delivery risk, enhance performance outcomes, and ensure integrity and certification during the Anzac-class frigates’ lifecycle.
Thyssenkrupp has also offered to build the navy’s General Purpose Frigates, which are slated to arrive by 2029.
