Dutch MoD awards contract for future fast interceptors
The Netherlands has ordered 13 future fast interceptors from De Haas Shipyards. (Dutch MoD)
The Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) awarded a contract to Rotterdam-based De Haas Shipyards for the supply of 13 future fast interceptors (FFIs) on 10 March.
Confirming the contract the same day, the MoD said the new FFIs are being acquired to replace some of the Netherlands' existing fleet of fast raiding, interception and special forces craft (FRISCs) and will be operated by the Royal Netherlands Navy's (RNLN's) Maritime Special Operations Forces and the Royal Netherlands Army's Commando Corps, including against armed opponents.
De Haas Shipyards expects to deliver the 13 vessels within three and a half years.
The Netherlands operates 48 FRISCs, which are approaching the end of their service lives. Some are undergoing modernisation to extend their services for another 10 years, and part of the fleet is being replaced by the new FFIs.
Compared with the existing FRISCs the FFIs will be stealthier, faster, and more heavily armed, and equipped with an advanced electro-optic sensor and high-speed navigation system, the MoD said. In a bid to reduce the physical load on crew and passengers, the new vessels will be equipped with improved shock-absorbing seats (as will the upgraded versions). The FFIs will be able to carry up to 12 passengers, compared with eight for existing FRISCs, and will have more space for equipment.
Meanwhile, some of the FRISCs will not be replaced on a one-for-one basis in favour of procuring a larger number of new medium landing craft, which are considered more suitable for modern amphibious operations.
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