The Dutch Navy will receive a total investment of 6,7 billion euros for the replacement of two M-frigates and six minehunters as well as the purchase of a second Combat Support Ship (CSS). 

The current multipurpose frigates, the HNLMS Van Speijk (F828) and the HNLMS Van Amstel (F831) were commissioned into Navy service in 1991 and 1995. The new frigates to replace them are expected to enter service by 2024. 

The CSS is one of the most urgent needs of the Netherlands which is why an “off-the-shelf” approach is most likely to be adopted.

The Dutch Navy currently operates six Alkmaar-class minehunters, developed and built in the 1980s in a joint program together with Belgium and France, and have now reached the end of their lifespan. The Netherlands will receive the new units, both manned and unmanned, between 2025 and 2030. 

The service will also receive new missiles, torpedoes and other weapon systems in the scope of this investment.