Netherlands will acquire addition anti-submarine warfare frigates (ASFW) for its Navy as part of new investment announced in the Defence White Paper 2024, published 5 September. 

The report also detailed additional F-35 jets for the Air Force, NH90 helicopters, and the reestablishment of the Army’s tank battalion, as part of an additional €2.4bn ($2.7bn) - an investment that brings the total defence spending up to €24bn per year.

With Russia’s attack on Ukraine having put into focus the potential for an attack on the Nato Alliance, Netherlands Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans explained the additional investment as preventative from war, deterring potential adversaries with a 'credible, powerful and innovative military’, according to a Netherlands Ministry of Defence (MoD) release. 

The requirement for additional anti-submarine warfare capabilities stems from the Royal Netherlands Navy’s increased activity in recent years. Having more ships deployed longer increases the underwater threat, and drove the decision to purchase new ASFW.

Dutch naval manufacturer, Damen is the prime contractor for the ASW Frigate (ASWF) programme, after signing a contract in June 2023 for the production of four vessels. 

These 146-metre frigates will feature a high degree of automation, allowing them to be operated by a relatively small crew. Although their primary mission is to detect and neutralise submarines, each ship will also be fitted with a Thales Above Water Warfare System (AWWS) to defend against surface and airborne threats.

Belgium and the Netherlands embarked on a collaborative project to acquire ASWF vessels. Initially, Belgium committed to funding €1bn for its two ships, while the Netherlands was projected to invest around €1.5bn. 

However, as of April 2023, the total cost for the four vessels had risen to approximately €4bn. The Netherlands anticipates receiving its first frigate by 2029 and the second by 2031, although delays could push completion to 2033.