Dutch Navy to improve defense capabilities with new high-tech support vessels.

According to information published by the Dutch MoD on September 23, 2024, the Dutch Navy is set to receive two new support vessels equipped with advanced weaponry and state-of-the-art technology, as announced by State Secretary Gijs Tuinman to the House of Representatives. uilt by Damen, these ships will enhance the protection of the Netherlands and its allies against potential threats. The vessels are designed to operate in high-threat environments, reinforcing air defense and increasing firepower, while also supporting surveillance efforts in the North Sea.
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Artist rendering of the future support vessels. (Picture source: Dutch MoD)

The Navy's need for long-range air defense missiles has grown in response to the evolving threat landscape. Potential adversaries are capable of launching mass simultaneous attacks using anti-ship missiles or drones. The new vessels will operate alongside the Air Defense and Command Frigates (LC-fregatten), providing additional missile capacity to safeguard naval assets. These missiles will be launched from the support vessels and guided by the frigates’ systems.

For amphibious operations, the Navy also requires precision long-range munitions to neutralize threats on land, such as enemy air defense systems. In addition, electronic warfare equipment will be integrated to disrupt enemy radar systems and prevent missiles from hitting their targets, as well as interfere with the control of hostile drones.

The North Sea’s infrastructure, including wind farms, oil platforms, and undersea cables, has become a point of vulnerability. The Military Intelligence and Security Service has reported suspicious Russian activity, indicating potential espionage and preparations for sabotage. To counter this, the new vessels will be equipped with underwater drones and sensors to monitor and gather intelligence on possible threats to maritime infrastructure.

This acquisition from Damen aligns with the government's policy to support the Dutch maritime industry and contribute to Europe's strategic autonomy. With a budget ranging from €250 million to €1 billion, the first vessel is expected to be operational in the North Sea by 2026, with both fully deployed by 2027.

Russian threat

The Netherlands faces a growing threat from Russia, shaped by the ongoing war in Ukraine and broader tensions between Russia and NATO. Key concerns include espionage, cyber-attacks, and potential sabotage of critical infrastructure, particularly in the North Sea. Russian vessels have been observed conducting suspicious activities around Dutch wind farms and other vital assets, indicating a strategic effort to map and potentially disrupt essential infrastructure in the event of conflict​.

This threat is compounded by the geopolitical role the Netherlands plays as part of NATO. Dutch ports and airports are seen as potential targets for Russian missiles, especially if NATO forces were to deploy through the country in response to an attack on a member state.