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
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders]()
Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders
Turkish shipbuilders have sold ships from Asia to Europe, but autonomy and swarm technology could give them a fairer fight against Western European rivals.
-
![France’s naval modernisation drives opportunities for European defence industry]()
France’s naval modernisation drives opportunities for European defence industry
Ahead of Euronaval 2026, major submarine, frigate and aircraft carrier programmes are driving investment, while future corvette replacements and growing interest in uncrewed vessels offer further opportunities for industry into the 2030s and beyond.
-
![Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq]()
Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq
The Canadian Department of National Defence is evaluating communications and reconnaissance changes for CCGS Imnaryuaq’s expanded maritime security role, while retaining its 2032 acceptance target.
