Belgian MoD press release
The laying of the keel is a ceremony rich in symbolism. A coin, bearing the effigy of the sponsoring city, is welded to the structure of the ship. “This tradition brings good luck to the ship and its crew. It also reminds us of the link between the city of Liège and the Navy, a history we are proud to continue,” said Willy Demeyer, Mayor of Liège, when the coin was presented by Major Admiral Tanguy Botman, Commander of the Belgian Navy.
The city, which in the past sponsored the minesweeper Georges Truffaut, is thus reviving a heritage that promotes its openness and spirit of adventure.
An opportunity for all
For the mayor, the symbolism of the M943 Liège goes beyond its military role. “Young people from Liège have an adventurous character and a strong identity, capable of exporting themselves while remaining attached to their roots. And it’s this dynamic that we find at the Marine, and which adds value to it,” emphasizes Willy Demeyer.
The Navy never ceases to point out that its projects open up opportunities for civilians and military alike, promoting innovation and cultural exchange.
The ship’s route
The structural phase will take place in Romania. The ship will then be towed to Concarneau, France, where Naval Group will be responsible for finalizing the work.
The construction of a ship begins with what is known as the “first steel cut”, during which the first steel plates are cut and assembled to form blocks. This is followed by the laying of the keel, a symbolic moment when a coin is welded to the keel for good luck. The construction of the “casco” then begins, in which the hull – the shell of the ship – is built.
Assembly comprises 27 blocks, including bow, deck, engine rooms, work areas and accommodation. During this phase, heavy machinery is also installed on board. Once the hull is ready, the vessel is launched and the outfitting phase begins. This phase includes the installation of electrical cables, insulation, piping, painting and other systems.
After completion, port acceptance tests (HAT) and sea acceptance tests (SAT) are carried out. Weapon system integration will then take place in Lorient, France.
This process makes it possible to meet the tight deadlines for the construction of several ships, while optimizing resources.
A bi-national project
The rMCM program is a bi-national project between Belgium and the Netherlands, aimed at replacing the mine countermeasures capabilities of both navies.
A total of 12 vessels will be built: one for the Belgian Navy and six for the Dutch Navy. All ships will be ready and operational by 2030.
The program was awarded in 2019 to Belgium Naval & Robotics, a consortium comprising Naval Group and Exail. Around a hundred drones will also be produced as part of a toolbox to equip each ship.
France is also participating in the program, and will use the same mother ship model for its mine-clearing vessels. With this ship, the Belgian Navy is strengthening its capabilities while honoring its traditions and inspiring a new generation.
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Check out our video coverage of the rMCM program with Naval Group during the Euronaval 2024 press trip:
