MST contracted to produce German navy boats
Seawork exhibitor Marine Specialised Technology (MST) has been contracted to produce eight operational fast raiding boats for the German Navy.
As part of the F126 frigate class construction project for the German Navy, led by Dutch shipyard Damen Naval (DN), a series of eight operational fast raiding boats are to be delivered.
UK-based MST has been specifically hired to produce the MST FRISC-1200-SF model, the first of which is scheduled for delivery in early 2025.
During the ongoing detailed design phase, a mock-up test was conducted to minimise risks and optimise the design. This took place from 22 to 26 May 2023 at the Eckernförde naval base, involving extensive participation from various stakeholders, including:
- Naval Special Forces Command (KSM)
- Sea Battalion
- Operational Test Centre
- Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Schiffe und Marinewaffen, Maritime Technologie und Forschung (WTD 71)
- Approval Office of the Maritime Department of the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw)
- Boat manufacturer MST
- External construction supervision company MSG systems AG
- Contractor Damen Naval (DN)
- Client BAAINBw, Sea Department, Group 8 (BAAINBw S8).
The mock-up, a detailed draft of the operational boat, was used to visualise the design and assess all crucial functions. This early-phase testing allowed for identifying and incorporating improvements to tailor the boat for its intended use by different naval forces.
Mock-up goals
The primary goal of the mock-up tests was to find and address potential improvements during the detailed construction phase, ensuring they are incorporated into the final design. Key areas of focus included:
- Adding holders for equipment and gear
- Placement of ammunition boxes
- Optimal positioning of heavy on-board weapons
- Ergonomic improvements for the human-machine interface (HMI), especially the driver’s platform.
Identified modifications can be implemented more efficiently and cost effectively before the boats’ production begins, avoiding the higher costs and delays associated with post-production changes.
The inclusive approach of involving all relevant agencies – from contractors to future users and approval bodies – during the mock-up phase has set a new standard for risk minimisation and detailed planning optimisation for operational boats.
Feedback from all departments and the contractor indicated that the trials were highly beneficial.
The knowledge and insights gained during this trial have solidified a realistic and tangible understanding of the operational boat’s design for all project participants. This collective effort has paved the way for the successful completion of another critical milestone in the F126 project, ensuring the timely implementation of the validated and adjusted detailed plans.
The scope of the supply contract includes the delivery of twelve special forces FRISC RHIB’s with transportation trailers and a comprehensive Integrated Logistics Support package.
The FRISC craft are the latest generation of MST’s well proven Fast Raiding, Intervention and Special Forces Craft Series, and will provide the German navy with an enhanced combat platform, using state-of-the-art navigation and C2 command systems, to meet current and future military requirements.
Ben Kerfoot, managing director for Marine Specialised Technology Group, said: “MST is extremely pleased to be working with Damen again on this prestigious project, this time with Damen Naval on complex frigates, providing a highly effective platform against maritime threats.”
The F126 frigates are being built by Dutch shipbuilder Damen Naval, on German shipyards in Wolgast, Kiel and Hamburg. Major partners include Thales Netherlands, and Blohm + Voss.
The first ship will be handed over in Hamburg in 2028 and the contract includes an option for two further frigates.
Seawork stand: Q14
