Rheinmetall positions for fourth German fleet intelligence vessel as Class 424
Germany is taking steps towards acquiring a fourth Class 424 fleet intelligence vessel, as Rheinmetall recently celebrated the keel laying of the third ship at its Wolgast yard, well ahead of schedule. Federal Defence Minister Boris Pistorius announced that the country’s new capability profile necessitates four vessels, with plans for a fourth sistership expected to be presented to parliament.
Progress on Construction and Advanced Technology
The third vessel is currently under construction at Rheinmetall’s Peene-Werft shipyard, where work on the second ship is also in progress. The ceremony, attended by key figures including Minister Pistorius and Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger, highlighted the advanced sensor technology equipped in the new generation of Class 424 fleet intelligence vessels. These technologies will allow for efficient monitoring of the electromagnetic spectrum on land, air, and sea, enhancing intelligence gathering capabilities significantly. The new vessels are scheduled to be commissioned gradually starting in 2029, ensuring sustained capability for the foreseeable future.
Collaboration and Future Plans
Minister Pistorius emphasized the collaboration between the Navy and the Cyber and Information Domain Service in utilizing the technical capabilities onboard the fleet intelligence vessels for information gathering and analysis. With a total requirement of four vessels specified in the new capability profile, plans are underway for the construction of a fourth sistership, pending parliamentary approval. The vessels, approximately 130 meters in length, are designed as reconnaissance platforms for maritime intelligence gathering and will undergo final outfitting, commissioning, and testing at Rheinmetall’s Blohm+Voss shipyard in Hamburg.
The successful keel-laying ceremony, attended by various dignitaries, marked a significant milestone in the shipbuilding process, showcasing the expertise and collaborative efforts of the team involved. Rheinmetall’s continued progress on the second and third Class 424 vessels at Wolgast underscores Germany’s commitment to enhancing its fleet intelligence capabilities through cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships.
