Below the break, you will find an OSK Design news release regarding their proposal for Arctic frigates to replace the four ship Thetis class, which performs many of the functions of coast guard cutters. Earlier reports had seemed to indicate the Thetis class would be replaced by a different design, OMT’s MPV-80, but apparently the Danish government has not yet made a choice.
The OSK Design’s Arctic frigate proposal is featured in the video above, beginning at time 5:00.
The two designs look very different. The MPV-80 is short (84 meters) and portly (17.6 meters of beam). The OSK “Arctic Frigate” has more conventional proportions but is larger than the OPC in every dimension and may be larger than the NSC.
Still, they do share some characteristics. Both feature the SH Defence “CUBE” modular system. Both are ice class designs. Both appear to be equipped with two Rheinmetall Oerlikon 35mm Millennium Guns as CIWS.
The Danes have created some widely admired designs lately, including the Absalon class and the Iver Huitfeldt class which has evolved into the British Type 31 “Arrowhead 140” frigate also being built for Indonesia and Poland. There are not many Arctic frigate designs out there. This will be interesting. We might want to reconsider our Arctic Security Cutter requirements.
Danish naval architects OSK Design unveils latest concept for an Arctic frigate
Leaders in maritime innovation, OSK Design, is proud to introduce their latest design, the Arctic frigate, an exceptional vessel meticulously crafted for operations in the North Atlantic, High North, and Greenland regions. This multi-purpose Arctic frigate is set to redefine maritime capabilities with its significant features and capabilities. One of the notable features of the Arctic frigate is its fully operational helicopter, ready to take on a key role in its missions. This helicopter is a critical asset for Arctic operations, allowing for airborne scouting, transport, and search and rescue missions in the challenging Arctic environment.
Mission-ready versatility, arctic-ready and an exceptional mobility
The Arctic frigate is a true workhorse, designed to excel in a wide range of missions.
The Arctic frigate is classed for year-round operation in the arctic, capable of withstanding the most challenging ice conditions while maintaining optimal performance. With a length of 125 meters, a beam of 18.0 meters, a maximum draught of 6 meters, and a top speed of 23+ knots, this frigate is built for swift and agile navigation in the most unstable waters.
Equipped to handle any situation, the Arctic frigate boasts an impressive arsenal, including a gun, missile launcher, and overhead weapon systems, ensuring readiness for both offensive and defensive maneuvers. Operating in one of the harshest environments on Earth demands extraordinary capabilities.
Mission flexibility redefined
The Arctic frigate is powered by a state-of-the-art diesel-electric system (PODs), offering both efficiency and maneuverability. A crew capacity of 60-125+ depending on the task, a fully equipped helicopter, and a drone capacity for air, surface, and underwater operations ensure that the Arctic Frigate is ready for any mission. With two RHIBs (Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boats) up to 9 meters in length and one stern-launched boat up to 12 meters, the vessel is equipped for swift and effective search and rescue missions.
The mission bay is designed to accommodate various modular systems and stores, such as the ACTAS ASW system, mine-laying modules, oil spill booms and equipment for the Arctic Standby Force, allowing for mission-specific adaptability. With its large, modularized mission bay, this vessel is adaptable for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), surface and air surveillance, maintenance of sovereignty, search and rescue, disaster relief and enhanced self-defense.
With the Arctic frigate, OSK Design has designed a vessel that represents the pinnacle of maritime engineering and innovation. It is uniquely prepared to meet the demands of operations in the Arctic, offering a combination of versatility, power, and adaptability.
For more information about the Arctic frigate and OSK Design’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of maritime design, please contact Lars Povl Jensen, Head of Defence at OSK Design, Phone: +45 31 43 75 60 or mail: lpj@oskdesign.com