The Netherlands has opted for modified Barracuda submarines from Naval Group and cooperation partner Royal IHC to replace its Walrus-class submarines (Replacement Netherlands Submarine Capability project). This decision was announced by State Secretary of Defense Christophe van der Maat a few days ago at the naval base in Den Helder. However, a number of details still need to be clarified before a contract can be signed.
The decision commits the Group to implementing a comprehensive strategic partnership with the Netherlands aimed at supporting the Royal Netherlands Navy’s submarine service and intensifying cooperation with the Dutch Ministry of Defense, industry and R&D partners, according to a recent Naval Group press release.
“We are very honored to have been selected by the Netherlands after a tough competition and to be involved in this project of strategic importance,” said Pierre Éric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group. “The Barracuda family of submarines will provide the Royal Netherlands Navy with enhanced capabilities and meet the requirements of the Dutch Ministry of Defense. We look forward to working closely with our Dutch partners to successfully execute this important program that will contribute to the strategic autonomy of the Netherlands.” The Netherlands is relying on a modified version of the Barracuda class with conventional propulsion for the procurement. The boats originally developed for the French Navy are nuclear-powered. In addition to launching special forces and using torpedoes, the Dutch also want to be able to fire cruise missiles with the boats. For this purpose – and also for the new air defense frigates – the country is planning to procure Tomahawk guided missiles. https://militaeraktuell.at/glock-zeigt-neuheiten-und-ueberraschungen/ According to State Secretary van der Maat, the involvement of Dutch industry in the project played a key role in the decision for the Naval Group. “The decision to award the contract will therefore not only benefit the Royal Netherlands Navy and the country’s security interests. It will also benefit Dutch companies and drive the further expansion of the technology base in the country.” In addition to the Naval Group Saab and Damen and Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems were also hoping to succeed the four Walrus boats of the Dutch.
