ME Production, based in Frederikshavn, Denmark, is ready to deliver reduction gearboxes for the propulsion systems of Denmark’s upcoming Arctic patrol vessels. The company enters the competition with more than 50 years of production experience, extensive international deliveries, and strong maritime ownership through TORM A/S.
The Arctic patrol vessels are intended to strengthen Denmark’s presence in the Arctic and North Atlantic at a time of increasing geopolitical tension and strategic focus on the region. The reduction gearbox is a critical component in the vessel’s propulsion system and overall operational reliability—and this is where ME Production holds a well-documented position.
1,500 delivered reduction gearboxes – many still in operation after 30 years
ME Production is Denmark’s only manufacturer of large reduction gearboxes for propulsion systems for medium- to high-speed engines, with a product range covering reduction and hybrid gearboxes up to 10,000 kW.
The company has delivered approximately 1,500 reduction gearboxes globally, many of which remain in operation after more than 30 years with minimal maintenance beyond standard oil changes.
These gearboxes have been supplied to a wide range of NATO countries and international navies and are used in:
- Frigates
- Patrol vessels
- Rescue vessels
- Icebreakers
- Command support and diving vessels
- Auxiliary naval vessels
Most recently, in January 2026, ME Production received an order for reduction gearboxes for four NATO crew boats (a total of eight hybrid gearboxes), followed in March 2026 by an order for a twin in-single out reduction gearbox for the conversion of a NATO auxiliary vessel.
“When we talk about propulsion systems, we are talking about critical onboard infrastructure. The reduction gearbox is a key component in the vessel’s operation and operational capability.
We have supplied NATO countries and international navies for decades, including OPVs of frigate size, and our solutions are proven in operation over very long periods. This gives us a strong foundation for bidding on new Danish projects as part of the Danish naval program,” says Kim Pedersen, CCO at ME Production.
National capability with international documentation
In a time of increasing geopolitical uncertainty and focus on supply chain resilience, the company highlights the importance of balancing international cooperation with strong national capabilities.
“If we have the capacity and experience in Denmark to deliver competitively to the Danish defense, it is only natural that we become part of the solution.
A Danish supplier of reduction gearboxes strengthens resilience, reduces dependency, and ensures close technical collaboration throughout the lifetime of the vessels,”
says Kim Pedersen.
An order for reduction gearboxes for the Arctic patrol vessels would also have a direct impact on employment in Frederikshavn and contribute to strengthening the Danish defense industrial base.
Ready to bid – in Denmark and internationally
With 1,500 delivered reduction gearboxes, extensive NATO experience, and new international orders in the pipeline, ME Production considers itself well positioned to bid for the upcoming Danish Arctic patrol vessels, as well as Home Guard vessels—and future Danish frigates.
At the same time, the company is positioning itself for future NATO newbuilds, as well as conversions and upgrades of existing naval vessels.
As part of this effort, ME Production is also opening its production facilities in Frederikshavn, offering stakeholders the opportunity to experience the company’s capabilities firsthand and engage in direct dialogue about opportunities for Danish participation in future defense projects.
Facts about ME Production
- Specialized in reduction gearboxes and hybrid propulsion gearboxes
- 50+ years of production in Frederikshavn
- Product range up to 10,000 kW
- Approximately 1,500 reduction gearboxes delivered globally
- Deliveries to NATO countries and international navies
- Documented operational reliability exceeding 30 years