The development of ballistic missile defense (BMD) by the Royal Netherlands Navy caused me to take a closer look at that service; I discovered that the RNLN is an excellent, though not large, navy with two disparate missions: NATO and the Dutch territories in the Caribbean.
The RNLN presently has two active Diesel-electric attack submarines of the Walrus class, plus a sister boat currently being upgraded. The lead boat of the class, the HNLMS Walrus has been retired and is used for parts support for the other boats. A replacement submarine is being planned for the 2030s.
The BMD capability of the RNLN resides in the four frigates of the De Zeven Provincien class. These look to me to be excellent frigates that do not use the U.S. Aegis system but have an excellent Dutch combat system/radar that gives them somewhat similar capabilities. They fire Standard SM-2 IIIA missiles from a vertical launch system, have a 127mm gun and accommodate a single NH-90 helicopter. Planning -- in cooperation with the German Navy -- is underway for replacements in the 2030s.
The largest ship in the RNLN is the HNLMS Karel Doorman, a multipurpose auxiliary that has replenishment-at-sea capabilities as well as amphibious assault capabilities. The ship has excellent and large helicopter facilities and can function in a roll-on/roll-off role for vehicles. In a unique arrangement, the use of the Karel Doorman is shared with the German Navy.
The RNLN also has smaller units, such as offshore patrol vessels, minehunters, etc. Typically it maintains a presence in the Caribbean while most of the fleet operates in European waters.
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'25 M850ix GC Tanzanite w/Black & Fiona Red
BMW CCA 31 years
Is 4 years over yet?
Last edited by Llarry; 11-26-2023 at 10:36 AM..
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