Rolls-Royce to supply power systems for new Polish frigates

Rolls-Royce is set to provide mtu propulsion and on-board power systems for three new Miecznik-class frigates for the Polish Navy, according to a press release.

The construction of the first 20-cylinder mtu Series 8000 engines, which will power these frigates, is underway at the Rolls-Royce Power Systems division’s Friedrichshafen plant.

Each of the three new multipurpose Miecznik frigates will be equipped with four 20V8000 main propulsion engines, each delivering 8,200 kW, and four 12V4000 on-board generators, each providing 1650 kW of mechanical power.

The CODAD (Combined Diesel and Diesel) propulsion system, featuring four main engines, allows flexible operation modes, ranging from single engine operation for slow patrols to high-speed operation exceeding 20 knots. At a cruising speed of 12 knots, the Miecznik-class ships can achieve a range of approximately 8,000 nautical miles.

Additionally, the four mtu on-board generators will independently power the electrical grid necessary for ship operations and missions. The frigates, based on the British Arrowhead 140 design, will be equipped with advanced weapon and mission systems to control sea areas, protect naval bases, and engage various targets.

The first Miecznik-class frigate is currently being constructed at the PGZ shipyard in Gdynia, Poland, with its launch scheduled for 2026 and commissioning in 2030. The remaining two ships are expected to be delivered to the Polish Navy by 2031.

Paul Röck, Defence Sales Director for EMEA and Latin America at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, commented, “This order as part of our strategic initiative in the government business not only further consolidates our strong position in the market for propulsion systems for very fast ships. With these state-of-the-art systems, we are also supporting our NATO partner Poland, with whom we have a long-standing partnership.”