Dutch ponder SSK proposals

19th October 2020 - 13:45 GMT | by Tim Fish

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Local industrial participation is an essential element in the programme to replace four Walrus-class boats

Conventional diesel-electric powered attack submarines (SSKs) are the ultimate weapon for sea denial and controlling the sea lanes of communication. These hard-to-detect platforms are dangerous because enemy fleets can never be sure where they are located and often they will not enter into an area if an SSK is suspected to be present.

Building a submarine is a commitment that often spans several decades, so a programme to replace Walrus-class SSKs in the Netherlands is no small undertaking. The Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) is selecting a new design from overseas and whilst most of the construction will take place

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Tim Fish

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Tim Fish is a special correspondent for Shephard Media. Formerly the editor of Land Warfare …

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