RHEINMETALL: German Navy to Receive Fourth Intelligence Vessel
Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has approved the procurement of a fourth fleet intelligence vessel. The keel-laying for the third vessel at Rheinmetall's Wolgast shipyard occurred ahead of schedule.
German Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius has initiated the procurement process for a fourth fleet intelligence vessel for the German Navy. The announcement coincided with the keel-laying ceremony for the third vessel of this type at Rheinmetall's shipyard in Wolgast, an event that took place several months ahead of the planned schedule. The second intelligence vessel is also under construction at the same facility.
These new fleet intelligence vessels, designated Class 424, are designed to enhance the German Armed Forces' intelligence gathering and surveillance capabilities at sea. According to Minister Pistorius, the vessels will be equipped with advanced sensor technology capable of monitoring the electromagnetic spectrum across land, air, and sea. The vessels are expected to enter service gradually starting in 2029, ensuring this capability for decades to come.
The construction of the approximately 130-meter-long vessels is primarily taking place at the Wolgast shipyard. Final outfitting, commissioning, and testing will be conducted at Rheinmetall's Blohm+Voss shipyard in Hamburg. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger highlighted the successful and early keel-laying as a testament to the team's capabilities and effective collaboration.
The decision to proceed with a fourth vessel addresses the identified requirement for enhanced intelligence capabilities within the German armed forces. Minister Pistorius has set the course for the procurement, which now awaits parliamentary approval.