Dutch navy to receive additional ASW frigates under new defence plan

The Netherlands MoD has outlined plans to acquire two additional ASWFs for the RNLN, which would join two currently on order. (Netherlands MoD)

The Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) is set to receive additional anti-submarine warfare (ASW) frigates under new investments announced by the Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) in its latest defence White Paper.

Unveiled by the MoD on 5 September, the Defence White Paper 2024 confirms the government's plans to allocate an additional EUR2.4 billion (USD2.6 billion) to defence as part of efforts to strengthen national security in the face of evolving security challenges in Europe and beyond. The extra funding brings the total investment in defence spending up to EUR24 billion per year.

For the navy, priority has been given to the acquisition of two additional anti-submarine warfare frigates (ASWFs) – which would bring the total number on order to four. Six additional NH90 NATO frigate helicopters (NFHs) will also be procured – bringing the total number to 25.

Across the rest of the armed forces, the air force will receive six additional F-35A joint strike fighters and the army will receive 46 new Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks, with an option for six more. Substantial investment will also be made in recruiting and retaining personnel.

“The investment is necessary because, after a long period of peace in Europe, the Netherlands must actively contribute to deterring adversaries in order to prevent armed conflict,” the MoD said in a statement accompanying the White Paper. “Russia's unbridled aggression in Ukraine shows that an attack on the NATO alliance is no longer inconceivable. Such an attack would have a major impact on the security and prosperity of the Netherlands. Together with our allies, we must therefore make every effort to prevent such an attack.”