The first of class F219
Sachsen had only in December 2023
received a new Mk 41 VLS. The system replaced the previous launcher after suffering damage from a failed SM-2 launch in 2019 off Norway. The replacement experienced considerable delay, resulting in
Sachsen operating for five years without her principal weapon system. The hold-up arose both over Germany having to order a bespoke new Mk 41 launcher via FMS and then deferring installation until
Sachsen was due for a regular maintenance interval.
Prior to “Aspides” all Sachsen-class frigates were already scheduled to undergo
a significant “midlife update”. The contracted work will enable the F124-design to perform detection and tracking, but not direct interception, of ballistic missiles. Related work will integrate new TRS-4D/LR ROT radar sets and updates to the combat management system. The effort will commence this year and conclude in 2028. How the Red Sea-deployment affects this schedule, and specifically work for
Hessen is unclear at the present time.