The Netherlands has approved the next phase of its effort to integrate uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) into the Royal Netherlands Navy's future anti-submarine warfare (ASW) frigates, authorizing design work and the procurement of advanced sonar equipment.
The ministry has authorized Dutch Naval Design (DND) to begin the design phase for the USV while also completing the procurement of the adapted FLASH dipping sonar. DND is a collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, industry, academia and research institutions focused on developing advanced naval capabilities.
According to the ministry, the project will be carried out by the USV Alliance, a consortium within Dutch Naval Design that brings together companies and research organizations with expertise across multiple technical disciplines.
The 12-meter USVs are being designed from the outset to integrate a range of advanced systems, including the Compact FLASH dipping sonar developed by Thales Underwater Systems France. The sonar is intended to extend the detection range of the frigates while allowing them to search for submarines without revealing the warships' own position.
Uncrewed surface vessels are set to play a major role in future anti-submarine warfare. The Royal Netherlands Navy can deploy them for tasks such as detecting and tracking enemy submarines.
The navy also uses the vessels as a deterrent in areas where there is a high concentration of submarines. In this way, the USVs make a significant difference in improving the effectiveness and efficiency of operations, according to the officials.
By operating the USVs alongside the new ASW frigates, the navy expects to increase the ships' operational reach, improve responsiveness and enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of anti-submarine warfare missions.
The capability is intended to strengthen the operational performance of the Netherlands' future maritime forces.
The ASW frigates, developed on behalf of the Netherlands Ministry of Defense for the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Belgian Navy, set a new European standard for advanced anti-submarine warfare vessels. Four ships will be built, with two for the Royal Netherlands Navy and two for the Belgian Navy. Dutch shipbuilder Damen is responsible for the ship design and construction.
The first vessel is scheduled to be delivered by Damen Naval in 2028.