Netherlands Ministry of Defense press release
Today, as previously discussed with the House, the Ministry of Defense has requested a quotation for 4 new submarines from 3 candidate shipyards. The candidate yards are Naval Group , Saab Kockums and ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems . They are expected to submit their bids around the summer of 2023.
Defense then needs a number of months to analyze the detailed bids. Based on predetermined requirements and award criteria, the Ministry of Defense decides which yard is allowed to build the boats. One of the award criteria is the participation of Dutch companies in the development, construction and maintenance of important systems of the boat. Defense also wants as much Dutch involvement as possible to strengthen the technological and industrial base. The winning yard must sign an agreement for this with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy.
Big step
The Submarine Replacement Program gained momentum in the past six months. The request for quotation is a major step forward in this respect. Nevertheless, it will take about 10 years from the contract signing before the first two submarines are operational. After all, the boats still have to be built, tested and put into service.
Continue sailing
The Submarine Service, meanwhile, continues to sail with the boats of the Walrus class. In time, 2 of the 4 boats will be taken out of service. The parts of both submarines are used for the maintenance of the other boats.
Invest in strength
Defense invests in the strength of the armed forces. Replacing the current submarines is an important part of this. The Dutch submarines are an important niche capability within NATO and the EU.
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Naval News comments:
The three competing shipyards are Naval Group, Saab Kockums and Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems. The down-selection of the three companies was announced via the “B-letter” in December 2019. The four submarines are now expected to be in service in the 2030ies.
Naval News will be at NEDS this week, a defense event held in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. We will meet with the DMO (Dutch Materiel Organization) to learn more.
