Naval Group Taps NEDS to Enhance Collaboration with Dutch Allies
Partnership with Dutch educational institutions and the maritime sector progresses with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Marin, a deal between collaborators Thales and Optics11, along with a cooperation agreement with the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs (MEA) for the implementation of the countermeasure solution CANTO on vessels of the Royal Netherlands Navy.
Today, NEDS 2024 unfolded in Rotterdam. On this occasion, Naval Group heightened the growth of its alliances with partners from the Netherlands Defense Technology and Industrial Base (DTIB) by securing three additional agreements, just two weeks post the contract signings at Euronaval with Verebus and Van Halteren Technologies. Within the framework of the Industrial Cooperation Agreement (ICA) established in September this year, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Marin and an agreement between Thales and Optics11 represent a new advancement in the fabrication of submarines intended for the Royal Navy and Naval Group’s collaboration with Dutch educational institutions and industries. Concurrently with the RNSC program, a cooperation contract has also been finalized for the procurement of countermeasure systems CANTO for Royal Netherlands Navy vessels.
Pierre Éric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group: “Our alliance with the Dutch industry has thrived for 30 years and remains robust today. Following the previous contract signings during the Euronaval exhibition in Paris, we are making another advance in our dedication to meet the commitments established with our Dutch collaborators. We are therefore exceptionally gratified with the ongoing partnerships and look forward to extending them further.”
The execution of the Memorandum of Understanding with Marin, a globally acknowledged leading maritime research institution, permits the institute to leverage its software, testing facilities, simulators, and full-scale measurements to enhance submarines further. An agreement was also executed between Thales and Optics11 regarding a feasibility study for a towed linear antenna. As a global leader in optical detection technology for ultra-sensitive early warning systems, Optics11 will supply advanced systems and components for the Orka-class submarines.
With these two agreements, Optics11 and Marin are significantly engaged in the RNSC program, in high-value added sectors. These mark a progression towards the initial major evaluation anticipated at the beginning of 2025 when the submarine design will reach completion.
Pepijn de Jong, Defence Manager from Marin: “MARIN is thrilled to finalize this MoU, as it allows us to assist Naval Group with the Royal Netherlands Navy submarine replacement initiative by applying our extensive technical knowledge in naval hydrodynamics and maritime operations. We will collaborate with Naval Group to ensure that the Netherlands acquires the most advanced submarines possible.”
Paul Heiden, CEO of Optics11: “Optics11’s state-of-the-art technology and proficiency in advanced solutions are essential for the success of the Orka program. This collaboration not only reinforces our standing in the defense sphere but also highlights the significance of Dutch high-tech enterprises in fostering the national economy.”
Simultaneously, the signing of the cooperation agreement on the CANTO systems exemplifies Naval Group’s dedication to the Dutch DTIB extending beyond the RNSC program.
Earlier this month, Naval Group had already entered into agreements with Verebus and Van Halteren Technologies during the Euronaval in Paris. The alliance with Verebus emphasizes Integrated Logistic Support Technical Documentation adhering to S1000D specifications for the CANTO program for the Royal Navy. With Van Halteren Technologies, the collaboration centers on a preliminary analysis for hydraulic power units for Orka-class submarines.
