Netherlands: contract with Naval Group for Orka-class submarines officially signed

By Defence Industry Europe

The Dutch Ministry of Defence has officially signed a contract for the construction of four new Orka-class submarines, marking a significant step in enhancing the Netherlands' naval capabilities. The agreement, sealed in Den Helder on 30 September 2024, was signed by State Secretary for Defence Gijs Tuinman and Pierre Eric Pommellet, CEO of the French Naval Group, which will oversee the submarines’ production.

 

The Orka and Zwaardvis submarines will be delivered within the next 10 years, followed by the Barracuda and Tijgerhaai ships. This contract follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Dutch and French governments, which covers the exchange of knowledge, information, and usage rights.

In addition, an industrial cooperation agreement worth approximately EUR 1 billion has been reached, involving Dutch companies and knowledge institutes. State Secretary Tuinman highlighted the importance of this collaboration for Dutch industries, including the development of hydraulic systems, sonar technology, and other advanced submarine equipment.

 

 

Tuinman stressed the strategic importance of these submarines, pointing to increasing global threats and the need for credible deterrence. The new Orka-class submarines will be equipped with advanced cruise missiles, capable of striking hundreds of kilometres inland, as well as the latest sensors and communication systems for intelligence gathering.

The submarines are intended to support both Dutch and NATO defence interests, providing a cutting-edge capability for years to come.

 

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