The Anglo-Polish PGZ-Miecznik consortium has outlined the progress to date since Poland signed up for three Arrowhead 140 frigates in July 2021. A base design has been selected from several concepts, with the tactical and technical equipment fit now under consideration ahead of the start of the construction phase in the second quarter of 2023.
The latest artist’s impression reveals some design changes from earlier illustrations, such as a trimmed superstructure to provide a larger flight deck. This will enable the ships to operate Leonardo AW101 helicopters (similar to the RN Merlin), although they are to be primarily shore-based. The arrangement of anti-ship missile launchers is also altered. While still opting for 16 RBS-15 Mk3 missiles, some of the launchers are now positioned facing forward.
Despite disrupted supply chains, some due to high demand for weapons systems as a result of the Ukraine war, the timetable remains on track for deliveries in June 2028, September 2029 and August 2030.
The Miecznik (Swordfish) frigate programme is Poland’s largest ever defence project.