According to information published by Ahram Online on May 29, 2023, Egypt has received its second MEKO A-200 frigate, named Al-Qahhar, from Germany.
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MEKO A-200 EN frigate Al Qahhar. (Picture source: Egyptian Armed Forces)
Commander of the Egyptian Navy, Ashraf Atwa, raised the Egyptian flag on the new frigate during a ceremony held in the German port city of Bremerhaven to mark the handover.
This recent delivery follows the acquisition of the first MEKO A-200 frigate by Egypt in October 2022. It's worth noting that Egypt had previously acquired four submarines from TKMS as well, further strengthening its naval capabilities.
About the MEKO A-200
Among the MEKO A-200 features, the CODAG-WARP (Water jet and Refined Propellers) propulsion system deserves special mention. This innovative system incorporates two Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) shafts that are driven by interchangeable diesel engines, supplemented by a centrally-placed gas turbine-driven water jet.
This configuration not only generates outstanding acoustic signatures but also ensures redundancy in propulsion and enhances damage resilience. What's more, the frigate can function solely on diesel power, promoting operational cost efficiency and overall effectiveness.
She features a swift mono-hull design with a forefoot skeg for directional stability and active fin stabilizers that ensure the platform remains stable, even amidst turbulent waters.
Suitable for operation in up to sea state 6, the frigate is fully equipped to support both helicopter and boat operations. In terms of maneuverability, it outclasses other frigates of comparable size by maintaining a smaller tactical diameter.
The frigate incorporates an array of design measures to minimize its radar, infrared (IR), acoustic, and magnetic footprints. The low radar cross-section is achieved through an innovative X-Form® shell design, bulwark screening, flush-closing shell doors, and RCSnet screening.
Additionally, strategic positioning of the exhausts and the elimination of the funnel, paired with active cooling, contribute to reducing its IR signature. The stealth features are further augmented by the CODAG-WARP and degaussing systems.
The MEKO® A-200 frigate has an overall length of 121 meters and a maximum beam of 16.3 meters. The full-load displacement comes in at a substantial 3,700 tons.
At full load, the vessel can achieve a maximum speed exceeding 28 knots and boasts a range of 7,200 nautical miles when cruising at 16 knots. She can accommodate a total of 120 crew members, with additional space for 50 special forces personnel or trainees. The ship also has provisions to carry either a 10-ton helicopter or two 5-ton ones, in addition to two Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
