Based on data from R/V Polarstern multibeam sonar surveys between 1984 and 1997 a high resolution bathymetry has been generated for the central Fram Strait. The area ensonified covers approx. 36,500 sqkm between 78degN-80degN and 0degE-7.5degE. Basic outcome of the investigation is a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) with 100 m grid spacing which was utilized for contouring and generation of a new series of bathymetric charts (AWI Bathymetric Charts of the Fram Strait, AWI BCFS) at a scale of 1:100,000.The paper starts with a short introduction to the regional setting and relevance for local and global climate trends followed by a description of the input data and processing applied. Thereafter the bathymetric features of the area are characterized. Finally the generated data products available for public disposal are described.