Modifications and Replacements to Keep LC Frigates Seaworthy
Jun. 16, 2023
(Source: Netherlands Ministry of Defence; issued June 15, 2023)
(Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com)
Home > LATEST NEWS > Dutch to Modernize Four Command and Air-Defense Frigates
Modifications and Replacements to Keep LC Frigates Seaworthy
Jun. 16, 2023
(Source: Netherlands Ministry of Defence; issued June 15, 2023)
(Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com)
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The Dutch Navy's command and air-defense frigate HNLMS De Ruyter. The Dutch government is going ahead with the modernization of all four LC frigates: two of them will undergo a major refit, while the other two will have a less ambitious refit. (Dutch navy file photo)
THE HAGUE --- A few years ago, it was decided to keep the air defense and command frigates (LC frigates) in service longer. For this it is necessary to adjust or replace certain systems. The ships will thus remain safe, seaworthy and operationally relevant, State Secretary Christophe van der Maat reported to Parliament today.
For many systems, the supply of spare parts eventually stops, or the software becomes obsolete. That is why investments are being made in replacement. This concerns general systems such as cooling installations, hoisting equipment, heating boilers and fire alarm installations. But also smaller electronic systems such as navigation radars, electro-optical systems and radio systems. Networks and computer systems are also covered by the project.
Air Defense
For two of the four LC frigates, this also concerns an operational improvement. These are the first frigates to go out of service, in 2032 and 2033. It was previously decided not to equip these ships with the new ESSM Block 2 air defense missile, so they will retain the ESSM Block 1 missiles. They are now getting a software adjustment for better performance. The frigates are thus more resistant to modern threats.
The two frigates that do receive the ESSM Block 2 will also be equipped with RAM missiles for close-range air defense.
All four ships will also receive a new 127mm gun and new anti-ship missiles. It had already been decided to purchase Tomahawks for long-range land-attack.
Major maintenance
The modifications and replacements will largely be carried out between 2024 and 2029, when the frigates will undergo major maintenance. The ships are expected to be out of service for a year and a half during that period.
Defense wants to make as much use as possible of existing contracts and suppliers when implementing the project, which will cost between €50 million and €250 million.
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https://www.defense-aerospace.com/dutch-to-modernize-four-command-and-air-defense-frigates/