The US State Department has cleared a potential $3.5-billion sale to Germany for SM-6 Block I and SM-2 Block IIIC missiles to equip its upcoming F127 air-defense frigates. Berlin has requested up to 173 SM-6s and 577 SM-2s, along with MK 21 and MK 13 VLS canisters, support equipment, test systems, spare parts, and life-cycle logistics.
The SM-6, designated RIM-174 in US Navy service, offers multi-mission capability, performing anti-air, anti-surface, ballistic missile defense, and terminal intercept roles. With a range exceeding 200 kilometers and speeds near Mach 3.5, it can strike targets beyond the radar horizon.
The SM-2 Block IIIC, still in development, is the latest evolution of the SM-2 family. It replaces the older semi-active seeker with a dual-mode seeker combining active and semi-active guidance, adds a dorsal fin, and incorporates thrust-vectoring via a jet-tab system for improved maneuverability. Development is expected to finish by September 2031.
Both missile types will significantly enhance the F127 frigate’s air-defense capabilities ahead of its planned mid-2030s service entry. The ships, co-produced by NVL Group and thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, are designed to succeed the F124 Sachsen class and will be based on the MEKO A-400 Air & Missile Defense design with Aegis CMS and AN/SPY-6(V)1 radar. Germany intends to procure five vessels initially, with options to expand to as many as eight.
The 10,000-ton F127 will also deploy Naval Strike Missiles, 3SM Tyrfing anti-ship missiles, and potentially Tomahawk Block V cruise missiles if approved.
