The Algerian Defence Ministry has sent a letter to the German manufacturer ThyssenKrupp Marine SystemsKrupp (TKMS), in relation to the Contract No. 674/889, signed on March 26, 2012, confirming the purchase of two Meko A200 frigates. This purchase represents a part of modernization of Algerian naval forces’ potential.
The contract is worth €2, 175, 520, 699 which is very high compared to SA Valor-class Meko. It underlies supply of two MEKO A200N frigates and six AgustaWestland Super Lynx helicopters, including the weapon systems which will be supplied by Saab Bofors Dynamics via Diehl BGT , namely RBS15 MkIII anti-ship missiles, Umkhonto-IR surface-to-air missiles for the Meko and Mokopa air-to-ground missiles for the helios in addition to 82 MU-90.
Both parties Algerian and German managed to sign the contract after one year long negotiation process. The contract will allow Algeria to acquire two new frigates which are equipped with helicopters. They will be received later this year.
It should be noted that the same German manufacturer has sold the same kind of frigates, with a capacity of 3500 tons to South Africa. These frigates feature exterior stealth designs and use a combination of water jet propulsion systems with conventional diesel engines.
This contract forms part of a policy directed to diversifying sources of armament, which has been endorsed by the Algerian navy. The Algerian Navy prompted by smuggling, illegal migration and indigenous terrorism has been undertaking measures so as to be capable of combating these forms of crimes and provide safety to1000 km of its coastline.
As a result, Algeria is procuring naval equipment from several Western countries, particularly following the accession of Algeria to the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council. This step means that Algeria has become a partner of the Atlantic Alliance, after being a years-long partner of the former Soviet Union.
[mappress] World Maritime News Staff, April 5, 2012