The United Kingdom and the Netherlands have announced a £2.4 billion maritime partnership (about US$3.2 billion) to develop a new class of amphibious ships.
According to a report by UK Defence Journal, the agreement provides for the vessels to be built in British shipyards, based on a Dutch design and with participation from the industries of both countries.
Each country will receive four ships, which will form the core of a joint amphibious force. According to the British and Dutch governments, the program aims to expand NATO’s response capability and strengthen military cooperation among the allies.
The vessels will be about 160 meters long and have a displacement of 15,000 tonnes. They will be capable of transporting troops, vehicles, equipment and drones, as well as featuring decks prepared to operate current and future uncrewed systems.
Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, said the partnership combines the experience of the UK’s shipbuilding industry with Dutch expertise in design and maritime operations. The government also highlights that the program is expected to create hundreds of skilled jobs in the British shipbuilding industry.
“By combining the UK’s industrial experience with the Netherlands’ design and maritime expertise to provide first-class platforms for our elite amphibious forces, this partnership will strengthen NATO,” the British Prime Minister said.
The new vessels will gradually replace the United Kingdom’s current amphibious assets and are expected to enter service in the 2030s. The project is part of the two countries’ efforts to modernize their naval capabilities in response to the security environment in Europe and increase the interoperability of NATO forces.
+ NATO launches Drone Edge and will invest US$40 billion in defense against drones
Photo: Damen Naval. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
