The ICA outlines the industrial collaboration between Naval Group and the Netherlands’ defence and maritime sectors for the delivery of four new generation submarines, based on the Barracuda family design, to replace the ageing Walrus-class submarines.
The agreement aims to enhance cooperation with Dutch industries and knowledge centres, maximising strategic autonomy in submarine capability. It involves a 20-year partnership with Dutch companies, including large corporations, SMEs, high-tech firms, and research institutes. This long-term collaboration seeks to create value throughout the submarines’ life-cycle and strengthen the Netherlands Defence Technological and Industrial Base (NLDTIB).
Pierre Eric Pommellet stated: “It is an honour to sign the ICA, which marks a significant step for the RNSC programme. This agreement establishes a strong partnership with the NLDTIB to build the next generation of submarines for the Royal Netherlands Navy. We look forward to continuing this collaboration and benefiting from the high-performing solutions provided by our Dutch partners.”
The ICA is expected to boost the design, development, and production capabilities of the Dutch defence sector, particularly in the manufacturing of critical components for submarines and surface vessels.
Several Dutch companies also expressed their support for the agreement. Derk te Bokkel, CEO of Royal IHC, praised the partnership, highlighting its importance for the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Dutch maritime industry. Pieter van Breugel, Managing Director of Verebus, welcomed the long-term collaboration, noting the start of a sustainable engineering support model for the RNSC submarines. Mark Jacobs, CCO of Optics11, and Hugo Loudon, CEO of RH Marine, both emphasised their enthusiasm for contributing to the Orka programme. Rientz Willem Bol, CEO of Bolidt, celebrated the strategic cooperation, recognising it as a testament to Naval Group’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
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