HENSOLDT to equip German F124 frigates BMD capable radars

German sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT, in collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), will supply new radars to the German Navy in order to modernize sensor technology on the F124 air defence frigates, according to a press release from Hensoldt.

The Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and Operation (BAAINBw) has placed an order worth approximately 200 million euros for the delivery and installation of four sensor systems consisting of radar and IFF systems respectively.

With this order, the F124 frigate’s radars will be refurbished to overcome the obsolescence of electronics components. The order also marks the start of the development of national capabilities in the field of Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD). It includes a shore facility that is a fully functional copy of the ship’s radars. It not only enables training for users and service technicians but also allows further developments to be tested on land prior to onboard installation.

To this end, HENSOLDT has entered into strategic cooperation in the field of BMD-capable wide-range radars in S-band with IAI subsidiary ELTA Systems Ltd. This supplies the German customer with a combination of a national partner for certification and long-term support, as well as market-available systems that have been tried and tested in the field.

Previously, HENSOLDT was awarded the contract for the modernisation of land-based air surveillance in the HADR NF programme, which was also based on a collaboration with IAI’s ELTA. The radars used in both projects are largely identical in construction, which benefits the customer in terms of logistical supply and thus system longevity. This way, future developments can also be applied cross-sectionally, allowing for a more cost-effective introduction.

HENSOLDT is also modernizing the TRS-3D radars of two K130-class corvettes of the German Navy, as well as an associated shore facility

Check out Naval Library App to find out the specifications of the F124 class frigates.