British engineering firm Babcock International announced on Friday that it has been selected to provide platform design for the Polish Navy’s new Miecznik frigates.
The company’s Arrowhead 140 design proposal bested other contenders, including Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems and Spain’s Navantia.
The design will be used for the country’s three frigates, to be built in Polish shipyards with a local workforce.
Babcock and the PGZ-Miecznik Consortium will now focus on the detailed design and systems integration planning process. The construction of the new frigates will begin next year, with initial deliveries slated for 2028.
According to the company, Poland’s selection follows similar decisions by the UK and Indonesia, choosing the Arrowhead 140 design as the basis for their new frigate programs.
In addition to the London-based firm, Thales UK and MBDA UK will provide key systems for the Polish frigates.
‘A Formidable Addition’
Babcock chief executive officer David Lockwood explained that the company will utilize the Arrowhead’s capabilities and adaptability to tailor a design that suits the needs of the Polish Navy.
He further stated that the British firm is looking forward to helping Poland develop and modernize its shipbuilding capability, which will provide social and economic benefits for the nation.
“As well as delivering a first-class frigate that will contribute significantly to the sovereign defence capability of Poland, this is a demonstrable commitment to a long-term industrial relationship between the UK and Poland,” Lockwood stressed.
According to UK defense procurement minister Jeremy Quin, the Arrowhead 140 will be a “formidable addition” to Poland’s fleet of frigates, providing necessary capabilities for the country’s growing naval presence.
“Poland is one of our oldest and closest allies, and we continue to strengthen our partnership to help deter future threats,” Quin said.
