On May 9, a large number of guests and representatives from politics, defense and industry gathered at the Blohm + Voss in Hamburg to mark the start of production for the first 125 Class Frigate (F125) for the German Navy. The invitation had been extended by the F125 Work Group (ARGE F125) consisting of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems AG – the client who has entrusted Blohm + Voss Naval GmbH with order completion – and Friedrich Lürssen Werft GmbH & Co.
At the touch of a button, Reinhard Schütte , Vice-President of the Federal Office of Defense Technology and Procurement , started the ultra-modern laser welding and cutting plant in Shipbuilding Hall 3. This machine will cut the individual plates. This punctual start of production marks the first milestone following the signing of the contract in June 2007. Keel-laying will take place as early as November 2011 and delivery of the first vessel is planned for 2016.