Baden-Württemberg-class (F125)

The development of the Baden-Württemberg class was initiated to replace the aging F122 Bremen-class frigates. An initial order for four vessels was placed in 2007, with the lead ship's construction beginning in 2011. The program faced significant technical setbacks during its sea trials, including weight distribution issues resulting in a persistent list and complications with the highly automated operations room. These deficiencies led to an unprecedented refusal of commission by the German defense procurement agency, marking the first such occurrence in the nation's naval history. After corrective measures, the lead vessel was eventually accepted in 2019, several years behind the original schedule.

This class represents the heaviest displacement frigates currently in operation, utilizing a design focused on stealth technology to minimize radar, infrared, and acoustic signatures. The architecture follows a "two island" principle, distributing critical systems and radar arrays across separate superstructures to ensure operational redundancy in the event of severe damage. The armament is specialized for land-attack and asymmetric threats, featuring a large-caliber main gun and various remote-controlled weapon stations alongside non-lethal deterrents like water cannons. However, the platform is characterized by a significant absence of traditional high-intensity warfare components; it lacks a vertical launching system, long-range surface-to-air missiles, and anti-submarine warfare sensors or torpedoes. A modernization program is planned to integrate a new standardized combat system to address future requirements.

The Baden-Württemberg class is optimized for stabilization missions, crisis management, and the support of special forces operations rather than major naval engagements. The engineering is specifically tailored for high-availability deployments, allowing the vessels to remain in theater for up to two years without returning to homeports. This operational profile supports intensive sea-time requirements, including sustained activities in tropical environments. While the class reached full delivery by early 2022, the transition to full operational status for the lead ship was projected for 2023. Planned operations include long-range missions, such as a scheduled circumnavigation of the globe to demonstrate extended reach and endurance.