Naval Group, Netherlands shake hands on Orka-class submarines

French shipbuilder Naval Group has signed a delivery agreement with the Netherlands Ministry of Defense for the four new Orka-class submarines planned for the Dutch Navy.

As informed, this step marks the launching of the Orka-class program, following the signature of the Industrial Cooperation Agreement (ICA) between Naval Group and the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

The program encompasses the replacement of the Walrus-class submarines currently operated by the Royal Netherlands Navy. The contract was signed following a thorough evaluation and bidding process conducted by the Materiel and IT Command (COMMIT) on behalf of the Netherlands Ministry of Defense.

“With the signature of the delivery agreement, we officially confirm that the road to new submarines runs through France and the Netherlands. Through Naval Group, which has extensive experience in building submarines, but also through the Dutch maritime manufacturing industry, which has unique and specialized knowledge,” Gijs Tuinman, Dutch State Secretary for Defense, stated.

“A thorough procurement process has pointed the Orka-class by Naval Group out to be the best replacement for the Walrus-class submarines. The Orka, Zwaardvis, Barracuda and Tijgerhaai will give the Netherlands Submarine Service a head start in underwater warfare,” Jan Willem Hartman, Commander of COMMIT, said.

Under this agreement, Naval Group is committed to cooperate with numerous key Dutch companies and knowledge institutes over a period of twenty years. This plan involves Naval Group’s network of Dutch partners on key systems and components.