“Transforming Underwater Combat: Naval Group and Royal IHC Join Forces for the Netherlands’ Bold Submarine Frontier”

Naval Group and Royal IHC have successfully secured a contract today to boost the advancement of the new Orka-class submarines for the Royal Netherlands Navy, marking a significant milestone in the execution of the Replacement of the Netherlands Submarine Capability (RNSC) project.

Building on a partnership that originated in 2018, Naval Group and Royal IHC will persist in blending their unique talents and expertise in the development and manufacturing of sophisticated maritime and defense systems. Under this agreement, Royal IHC will utilize its well-regarded prowess in steel manufacturing and modular construction to the RNSC endeavor, facilitating the provision of four state-of-the-art conventionally powered submarines to succeed the aging Walrus-class submarines currently operated by the Royal Netherlands Navy.

By joining forces with a leading Dutch expert in advanced shipbuilding, Naval Group strengthens the foundation for enduring national self-sufficiency in submarine maintenance and future upgrades, while fostering enhanced collaborations and knowledge sharing between Dutch and French naval industries. Aligned with the 2024 Industrial Cooperation Agreement (ICA) established with the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, a growing network of Dutch companies is contributing to the RNSC initiative – covering domains such as hydraulics, energy management, acoustic insulation, composite structures, detection systems, and filtration – empowering Naval Group to construct innovative submarines designed to meet the needs of the Royal Netherlands Navy.

“This agreement signifies an important landmark in Naval Group’s long-standing dedication to closely working with the Dutch Defence and Technology Industrial Base (NLDTIB),” expressed Pierre Éric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group. “We are honored to collaborate with such skilled partners within this initiative and in the times ahead.”

Derk te Bokkel, CEO of Royal IHC, stated: “As a Dutch provider of maritime technological advancement, we pride ourselves on delivering a high-tech contribution to this crucial project. This contract emphasizes the confidence in the quality and expertise of Royal IHC. We also extend our congratulations to all other Dutch partners engaged in this program. The focus on robust Dutch industrial involvement is essential for maintaining and enhancing our knowledge base, workforce, and economic sustainability.”