Rheinmetall Lays Keel for Third German Navy Intelligence Vessel, Fourth Planned

Rheinmetall has laid the keel for the third Class 424 fleet intelligence vessel for the German Armed Forces at its Wolgast shipyard, achieving the milestone several months ahead of schedule. Concurrently, German Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius has initiated the process for procuring a fourth sistership.

Germany's updated capability profile requires four fleet intelligence vessels, with three currently under construction. The procurement of the fourth vessel is subject to parliamentary approval. The approximately 130-meter-long ships will be equipped with advanced sensor technology for monitoring the electromagnetic spectrum across land, air, and sea, serving as reconnaissance platforms for the Bundeswehr.

The vessels are scheduled for progressive entry into service from 2029. Rheinmetall is constructing the ships at its Wolgast facility, with final outfitting, commissioning, and testing to be conducted at the company's Blohm+Voss shipyard in Hamburg. The program involves close cooperation between the German Navy and the Cyber and Information Domain Service (CIR).

Achieving the keel-laying milestone ahead of schedule highlights the capabilities of Rheinmetall's shipbuilding team and the benefits of integrated planning, technological expertise, and cooperation among program partners. The new vessels are expected to significantly enhance Germany's maritime intelligence capabilities.