German Navy Commander Ute Niklas takes command of frigate Rheinland-Pfalz

In a historic first for the German Navy, Commander Ute Niklas has assumed command of the frigate ‘Rheinland-Pfalz’ in Wilhelmshaven. She becomes the first woman to lead a frigate in the history of the German Navy.

Niklas, who previously served as a first officer on a sister ship and as an operational staff officer, succeeds Commander Benedikt Eichhorn. Following a shipyard stay, Niklas is tasked with leading the vessel through operational training to return it to full combat readiness. Eichhorn will remain within the 4th Frigate Squadron, taking command of the ‘Sachsen-Anhalt’.

The ceremony was attended by Rhineland-Palatinate Interior Minister Achim Schwickert, who highlighted the special connection between the state and the vessel.