The Sachsen class / F124 frigate is Germany's three-ship air-defense frigate class, built as a high-end escort for task-group protection and maritime security. Bundeswehr descriptions emphasize its SMART-L long-range radar, APAR fire-control radar, Mk41 vertical launch system for SM-2 and ESSM, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, RAM point defense, and 76 mm gun armament.
The Sachsen class centers on layered air defense, with a vertical launcher for longer-range interceptors and separate launcher sets for close-in defense and anti-surface fire.
| Launched item | Item type | Launch evidence |
|---|---|---|
 | Area-air-defense missile | Bundeswehr identifies the F124's Mk41 VLS as able to fire SM-2 missiles, giving the class its long-range air-defense layer. |
 | Point-defense missile | Bundeswehr says the same Mk41 VLS also fires ESSM, adding a shorter-range layer for defending the ship and nearby force elements. |
 | Anti-ship missile | Bundeswehr lists two Harpoon launchers on the class for engaging surface targets beyond gun range. |
The F124 Sachsen-class frigate Hessen deployed to EU Operation Aspides in 2024 in the Red Sea/Gulf of Aden to protect merchant shipping from Houthi drone and missile attacks. Sources report Hessen successfully engaged Houthi threats, including shooting down drones and intercepting a Houthi missile. Bundeswehr also describes the F124 class as especially suited to area air defence in this mission.
