Frigate propulsion

has been awarded a €50m (£39.5m) contract to supply four German Navy Class F125 frigates with propulsion equipment, and integrated automation and control systems.

The order, placed by a joinder of Krupp Marine Systems and Fr. Lürssen Werft, will see the first-ever German Navy frigate equipped with a combined diesel electric and gas-turbine (CODLAG) electric propulsion system.

According to Siemens, the system will combine the benefits of a high-speed gas turbine drive, with the advantages of a low-noise electrical propulsion unit that is designed for optimum performance at cruising speeds.

In addition to project management and system engineering, Siemens will equip each frigate with a battle-damage control system (BDCS), an electric propulsion system, an on-board training system (OBTS) and an integrated control and automation system for on-board ship equipment (ILASST). Siemens will also offer life-cycle management support for each vessel.

Heinz Waschin, responsible for navy business at Siemens Marine Solutions, said: ‘The ships are designed in such a way that they can be deployed for up to two years without having to return to port.

'The new frigates of the German Navy are therefore admirably suited to meet the requirements for vessels deployed on peacekeeping duties.’

The first frigate is scheduled for delivery in 2014 with the final order due for completion by 2017.