Atlas Elektronik and Thales Deutschland have jointly been commissioned to modernize the combat system of the German Class F124 frigates. The order comprises the three frigates “Sachsen”, “Hamburg” and “Hessen” as well as the Test and Training Centre (EZ/AZ) in Wilhelmshaven and the Reference Maintainer and Training Site (RMTS) in Den Helder. The work is to be organized and managed in such a way that the vessels will not need to be taken out of service. The modernization is scheduled to be completed in 2017.
The program will be managed under the “HW Regeneration CDS F124” consortium, formed by the two companies. Under the program the hardware of the Combat Direction System (CDS) will be refurbished, and receive software updates.
The activities include replacement of the outdated console processors, the data recording modules, and various network modules using components of the latest generation. Supportability of CDS components that are not regenerated yet critical for the system’s realtime response will, however, be ensured. It is expected that the new hardware will provide sufficient capacity for the integration of new subsystems and future CDS functionalities. The modernization will employ as much commercial off the shelf hardware and software modules as possible. Both companies were involved in the construction and equipment development of these vessels.
Volker Paltzo, Managing Director of Atlas Elektronik and Peter Obermark, CEO of Thales Deutschland recently signed the contract at the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) in Koblenz.
The F124 Sachsen class is Germany’s latest class of air-defense frigates. Although designated as frigates, they are in capability and size comparable to destroyers. The frigate incorporates the advanced multifunction radar APAR and SMART-L long-range radar, offering effective air and missile defense capability with the SM-2 Block IIIA missiles on board.
