Ulstein and thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS) have taken a significant step in the Norwegian Frigate Programme by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) on 26 March 2025. This collaboration positions their proposal as the only European alternative that includes building in Norway.
The partnership aims to leverage tkMS’s extensive experience in frigate design, having delivered 78 vessels across 11 different classes since 1980.
The plan involves hull production in Germany, followed by outfitting in Norway, a model that has proven successful in previous shipbuilding projects. This approach is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, with the outfitting phase alone engaging 400–430 people.
At the Undersea Defence Technology (UDT) exhibition in Oslo, tkMS and Ulstein Verft emphasised their commitment to strengthening Norwegian industrial cooperation.
If awarded the contract, the project will ensure significant value creation within Norway, reinforcing local expertise and economic benefits. The Norwegian government has been exploring partnerships with Germany, France, the UK, and the US as part of its broader naval modernisation strategy.
