A strong navy is fundamental to the security of any country with access to the sea. In times of peace, crisis, or war, it is the navy’s responsibility to ensure that trade and supplies by sea can continue uninterrupted.
In order to be able to respond to these challenges, Poland has launched a programme to acquire three multi-role frigates, code-named ‘Miecznik’. The vessels of this class will significantly increase the combat capabilities of the Polish Navy and allow it to perform a wide range of tasks at sea. The Miecznik frigates are based on the Arrowhead-140 ship design of the Babcock International firm. This design has been adapted to the requirements of the Polish Navy and equipped with a number of state-of-the-art weapon systems.
Miecznik frigates will perform a wide range of tasks at sea:
• Protection and defence of offshore installations (Baltic Pipe, wind farms, telecommunications)
• Surveillance of maritime areas,
• Combatting surface targets,
• Combatting underwater targets,
• Combating air targets,
• Protection of own and allied forces,
• Support to landing operations,
• Support for humanitarian operations,
• Support for maritime transports.
Basic parameters of the units:
• Overall length – approx. 138 m,
• Maximum width – approx. 20 m,
• Height – approx. 10 m (1 deck),
• Maximum displacement (including accessories and plating) – approx. 7,000 t,
• Range – approx. 8,000 nautical miles,
• Max speed – 28 knots,
• Propulsion – 4 diesel engines in CODAD arrangement
• Crew – 120 persons + approximately 60 additional personnel.The Miecznik programme is the result of a partnership between Poland and the United Kingdom. The joint project to create a multi-role vessel will address the challenges of today’s geopolitical situation. The ships will be built in Polish shipyards and with the strong involvement of the Polish defence industry in a tangible way contributing to the development of national and European industrial competence. They will be built at PGZ Stocznia Wojenna, which, thanks to the largest investment programme in its over 100-year history, will have some of the most modern halls, machinery and equipment at its disposal.
