The new agreements build on the Industrial Cooperation Agreement (ICA) reached in September and follow recent contracts signed with Verebus and Van Halteren Technologies during Euronaval in Paris. Speaking about these developments, Pierre Éric Pommellet, Naval Group Chairman and CEO, said: “Our cooperation with the Dutch industry has existed for 30 years, and is still going stronger today. After the previous contract signatures during the Euronaval exhibition in Paris, we are taking another step in our commitment to fulfil the agreements made with our Dutch partners.”
⚓🇳🇱 Naval Group strengthens relationship with 🇳🇱 DTIB and knowledge institute at #NEDS2024 (@NIDVnews ).
RNSC program
🔹 LOI with MARIN Institute
🔹 Agreement between @ThalesDefence and @optics_11CANTO systems for @kon_marine
🔹 cooperation contract with @MinisterieEZ pic.twitter.com/tpRypGtZjz— Naval Group (@navalgroup) November 21, 2024
The LoI with Marin, a world-renowned maritime research institute, enables the use of advanced software, test facilities, and simulators to enhance submarine development. Pepijn de Jong, Defence Manager at Marin, stated: “MARIN is delighted to be signing this LoI, as it means we can support Naval Group for the Royal Netherlands Navy submarine replacement program with our extensive technical expertise on naval hydrodynamics and maritime operations.”
Additionally, an agreement between Thales and Dutch high-tech firm Optics11 aims to conduct a feasibility study on a towed linear antenna system for the Orka-class submarines. Paul Heiden, CEO of Optics11, highlighted the significance of the partnership, saying: “Optics11’s cutting-edge technology and expertise in high-tech solutions are crucial for the success of the Orka program. This partnership not only strengthens our position in the defense sector but also underscores the importance of Dutch high-tech companies in contributing to the national economy.”
Beyond the RNSC submarine replacement program, Naval Group signed a cooperation contract with the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs to integrate CANTO countermeasure systems on Royal Netherlands Navy vessels. These systems, designed to improve naval defence capabilities, showcase Naval Group’s commitment to supporting Dutch industry.
Earlier collaborations with Verebus and Van Halteren Technologies also underscore the breadth of Naval Group’s engagement. Verebus focuses on Integrated Logistic Support Technical Documentation for the CANTO program, while Van Halteren Technologies is conducting a preliminary study for hydraulic power units for the Orka-class submarines.
