Another important point of discussion in Kiel was the current procurement project for the multi-purpose warship 180 (MKS 180) for the German Navy: "A current example of the strategic importance of this branch of industry is the multi-purpose warship of the Bundeswehr. With German Naval Yards, we now have only one German general contractor in this billion-dollar competition, which is to be decided by the end of the year. I very much hope that this contract will go to Germany so that the local naval industry, including its many suppliers, can continue to develop technologically and so that jobs in this branch of industry are secured over the next few years," said Rohlfs.
But the announcement of the maritime coordinator of the Federal Government must also be followed by action, continued the State Secretary: "All the more I would like to promote the fact that the Federal Government finally declares surface shipbuilding to be Germany's key technology as announced.
Jörg Herwig, Managing Director of GERMAN NAVAL YARDS, praised the support provided by the state government: "I am very pleased that the state government is always backing my company. The construction of naval ships takes place in an extremely difficult competitive environment. As German medium-sized companies, we often compete with European state-owned companies for new orders. This is unequal competition - but nevertheless we have been able to assert ourselves to this day thanks to our innovative strength. For this to remain so, orders from the domestic government are particularly important, especially as exports of military equipment are to be further reduced.
With regard to the Bundeswehr's multi-purpose battleship, I can assure you that we have made tremendous efforts to deliver an absolutely competitive offer! As German Naval Yards, we absolutely want to build these technologically complex ships! The whole staff is looking forward to this, but also the many partners we will involve in the development and construction."
