- Navy
- Netherlands Maritime Force
Ships
The frigates, the supply ships and the amphibious transport ships form the backbone of the entire fleet.
These are the so-called flagships of the Royal Netherlands Navy. A flagship is the ship assigned to the commander of the Netherlands Maritime Force (C-NLMARFOR), who, together with his staff, commands a group of units (flotilla). Depending on the operation, this may include frigates, submarines, minehunters, supply ships, hydrographical survey ships, helicopters and supporting aircraft.
The units are directed from the command centre, which is equipped with advanced communications and data facilities. Air-defence and command frigates are specifically equipped to provide air defence and to protect themselves as well as the other units in a flotilla. In addition, the on-board gun can be used to provide fire support to troops on land.
The main tasks of the multi-purpose frigates are in the spheres of anti-submarine, anti-aircraft and anti-ship warfare. These frigates are equipped with a helicopter deck and a hangar. Submarine detection is performed using Anaconda, which is a passive towed array sonar system. The low-noise propulsion and reduced reflective radar surface limit the chance of the ships being detected themselves. The weapon systems allow multiple targets to be engaged at the same time.
Multi-functional amphibious transport ships, also known as Landing Platform Docks (LPD), are capable of transporting a marine battalion, including equipment, vehicles, six helicopters and several landing crafts. These ships are not only used for amphibious operations, but also for command and control, crisis management operations, disaster relief and evacuations. The ship has an extensive medical facility with two operating tables, ten intensive care beds, treatment rooms and an emergency hospital which can accommodate approximately 100 wounded personnel.
Navy ships must be capable of staying at sea for extended periods of time. This is only possible if they are regularly replenished. The supply ships are designed to replenish units in their own fleet and those of allies on the open seas. Supplies include fuel, lubricants, foodstuffs, clothing, ammunition and spare parts. They are equipped with a helicopter deck and a hangar capable of accommodating multiple helicopters.
Social Media