News item | 17-06-2025 | 14:13
Defense reinforces the maritime strength with Tomahawk-Cruisvluchtwapens. They are for the air defense and command regats (LC-fregates). The future submarines are also provided with an advanced weapon system. Both are needed to eliminate hard -to -reach goals above water and deeply inland with great precision. State Secretary Gijs Tuinman announced this today.
Defense buys the Tomahawks At the American manufacturer Raytheon. This specific cross-flight weapon is the only thing that can be fired with the launch installation of the LC frigates. The Tomahawk Has a range of more than 1,000 kilometers. Defense will receive the first copies in 2028.
Development Weapon system
For the strength from the still to be built submarines, the Ministry of Defense participates in the development of a weapon system. A number of European countries are working together under the leadership of Spain. This so -called ‘Joint Strike Missile – Submarine Launched‘meets all requirements. Extra advantage is also the possible participation of Dutch knowledge institutions and industry. According to the current planning, the production of the system is ready on time to integrate it in 2032 into the new submarines of the Orka class.
Old submarines
In contrast to earlier plans, the Ministry of Defense has decided not not to equip the current old submarines of the Walrus class with extra strength. This is due to the remaining lifespan of the boats and the time it takes to acquire and integrate a new weapon system.