Damen Partners with Rheinmetall for Cutting-Edge MLG27-4.0 Gun Systems on F126 Frigates

Damen Naval has chosen the German technological consortium Rheinmetall to furnish eight cutting-edge MLG27-4.0 defense systems for the F126 frigates being constructed for the German Navy. Each frigate will be outfitted with two MLG27-4.0 systems. The agreement also includes an option for additional MLG27-4.0 systems for two more vessels.

The 27mm caliber MLG27 4.0 light naval artillery is part of the innovative SeaSnake RCWS product line manufactured by Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH, located in Unterlüß, Germany. The central component of the remotely operated MLG27 4.0 is the BK-27M revolver gun, widely utilized across the German Navy, where its predecessor serves as secondary armament on the current F125 frigates.

In comparison to earlier designs, the next-gen MLG27-4.0 defense system boasts a range of technological advancements. This sophisticated vessel defense system is equipped with daylight cameras, thermal sensors, and laser rangefinders, and can seamlessly integrate into an existing onboard command architecture, addressing all pertinent IT and OT security protocols. Furthermore, its revamped, fully digital system infrastructure facilitates direct engagement with external target coordinates in standard WGS-84 format.

The 27mm caliber revolver gun can function in single-shot mode, adjustable burst settings, or maintain a sustained firing rate of up to 1,700 rounds per minute. Its lightweight design and adaptable firing grid, along with an integrated simultaneous tracker, render the MLG27-4.0 weapon system a formidable armament for modern frigates like the F126 class.

Strategic advantages against diverse threats

In conjunction with other weaponry envisioned by Damen Naval for the initiative, the F126 frigates will incorporate an extensive and highly effective arsenal, providing a crucial tactical advantage against a variety of threats. “We are incredibly excited to collaborate with Rheinmetall on the F126 endeavor for the German Navy. The extensive capabilities make their MLG27-4.0 weapon system the ideal selection for the F126 frigates,” states Hein van Ameijden, the Managing Director of Damen Naval.

Rheinmetall greatly values its close and trustful partnership with Damen Naval, which, in addition to the fruitful collaboration on the F126 project, holds potential for future endeavors. “Our MLG27-4.0 weapon system, along with the entire SeaSnake family, has demonstrated exceptional efficacy against asymmetric threats. We are thrilled to be involved in the ambitious F126 program and to be supporting Damen Naval in constructing the frigates,” adds Roman Köhne, managing director of Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH.

The Dutch shipbuilder Damen Naval, the main contractor for the development of the German Navy’s new F126 frigate generation, will closely collaborate with key subcontractors Blohm+Voss Shipyards GmbH and Thales Netherlands B.V. in the design and construction of the four frigates. All four vessels will be entirely manufactured at German shipyards (located in Wolgast, Kiel, and Hamburg), with the initial frigate scheduled for delivery in 2028. The agreement between Damen and Germany’s Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) includes an option for two supplementary frigates.