On December 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., FGS Hamburg, under the command of Commander Alexander Timpf, returned to Wilhelmshaven. The frigate was part of the Standing NATO Maritime Group 1.
“We have just completed demanding and intensive months in NATO’s Standing Maritime Group. Through the high degree of flexibility and professionalism demonstrated by the crew as a cohesive unit, as well as the willpower of each individual, we have made a visible contribution to Germany’s reliability within NATO,” said the commanding officer, Commander Timpf.
During its deployment, Hamburg crossed the Arctic Circle several times, demonstrating its high seaworthiness and operational capability in northern waters and under harsh meteorological conditions at any time of year.
During the Neptune Strike exercise in the Baltic Sea, the frigate was able to demonstrate its capabilities once again. Thanks to its thorough operational training and heightened vigilance, the ship and its crew were able to contribute to security in European waters. At the beginning of October, at Denmark’s request, Hamburg provided significant support for airspace surveillance and security during the EU summit in Copenhagen.
Furthermore, numerous other opportunities for cooperation with NATO partners arose. Exchanges and coordination with various nations strengthened the alliance’s shared capabilities and values. A particular highlight was the close cooperation with the US aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford. This collaboration provided the crew with valuable experience in integrating diverse military capabilities and optimizing joint operations.
The recent experiences and deployments of Hamburg underscore the significant role of the German Navy within NATO and its commitment to security and stability in European waters. “Our deployment is the result of hard work, strong cohesion, and personal sacrifices in challenging times. My heartfelt thanks go not only to my crew, but also to the families and friends back home whose support has sustained us throughout the past months,” the commanding officer summarized.