Construction begins on Polish Navy’s second Miecznik frigate

The Polish Ministry of National Defence has officially commenced the construction of the ORP Storm, the second Miecznik-class frigate, at PGZ Stocznia Wojenna in Gdynia. This milestone was celebrated with a traditional sheet metal burning ceremony. The Miecznik-class frigates, designed to bolster the operational capabilities of the Polish Navy, will undertake various missions, including maritime surveillance and coastal defense.

Strengthening Naval Capabilities

The Miecznik-class frigates are being developed by the PGZ-MIECZNIK Consortium and are expected to significantly enhance Poland’s naval operations. The first frigate, ORP Wicher, is already under construction at the same shipyard. These advanced warships will be equipped to perform a range of critical tasks, such as protecting naval bases, engaging in surface and subsurface combat, and providing maritime air defense.

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Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, head of the Polish Ministry of National Defence, emphasized the importance of these vessels in the context of regional security. He referenced the Baltic Guard initiative, which aims to strengthen the defense capabilities of countries bordering the Baltic Sea. Kosiniak-Kamysz noted the increasing number of incidents in the region, including disruptions to critical infrastructure, which necessitate a robust response from Poland.

To support the Miecznik program, Babcock recently extended its contract with PGZ to assist in the construction of all three frigates. Additionally, in October 2023, Thales secured a contract to provide essential systems for the Miecznik frigates, including the TACTICOS integrated combat management system, sonars, and advanced radar systems.

Specifications and Operational Features

The Miecznik-class frigates will measure 138 meters in length, 20 meters in width, and 10 meters in height, with a displacement of 7,000 tonnes. Designed to accommodate between 100 and 120 personnel, these vessels will have an impressive operational endurance of 30 days at sea without the need for replenishment. They are capable of reaching a maximum speed of 28 knots and have a range of 8,000 nautical miles, making them a formidable addition to the Polish Navy.

As Poland continues to enhance its maritime defense capabilities, the Miecznik-class frigates represent a significant step forward in ensuring the security of the Baltic region and reinforcing NATO’s collective defense posture.