Belgium and Netherlands intent on new ships
Belgium and the Netherlands plan to sign a letter of intent on the joint procurement of new frigates and mine hunters at the end of November, the Belgian Ministry of Defence confirmed.
A ministry spokesman told Shephard the ships would be procured in the framework of Belgium's strategic vision 2030, which envisages Belgium acquiring two frigates and six mine hunters. The Netherlands will also acquire two new frigates and six mine hunters.
The letter of intent will cover joint maintenance and repairs of the ships. In the past, the two M-Frigates Belgium acquired from the Netherlands have received overhauls at
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
Australia is ramping up its uncrewed surface fleet as Sea Archer lines up for key requirement
As advances in uncrewed technology increasingly shape Australia’s maritime future, Shephard spoke with the country’s head of navy capability and a Leidos Australia executive about the operational advantages behind the shift.
-
What does Saab’s operations shake-up mean for its new ‘Naval’ chapter?
Saab’s merger of its Kockums and Naval Combat Systems divisions into a single business area called Naval, effective 1 April 2026, aims to enhance efficiency, innovation and competitive positioning in the naval sector.
-
Iran and the future of amphibious operations: crewed and uncrewed solutions
Amphibious operations are a very unique type of military operation, and global defence industries are developing new solutions to enhance capabilities and efficiency.
-
US Navy to acquire and test uncrewed surface vessel prototypes by the end of FY2026
The new autonomous surface vessels are planned to be operationally fielded in FY2027, following the completion of on-water trials.
-
Hanwha Ocean and TKMS are firming up their Canadian next-gen submarine proposals
CPSP competitors are proposing platforms fitted with advanced, next-generation capabilities to be built and sustained in cooperation with the Canadian industry.