France’s Naval Group has strengthened its collaboration with the Dutch defense industry for the Royal Netherlands Navy’s upcoming Orka-class submarines, signing new agreements with Nevesbu and Van Halteren Technologies during the defense and security convention in Rotterdam. The move expands the lineup of suppliers supporting the country’s major submarine replacement program.
Both Dutch firms are now part of Team Orka, a broad national industrial consortium contributing to the 2024 Replacement Netherlands Submarine Capability, which will replace the Royal Netherlands Navy’s aging Walrus-class submarines, operational since the 1990s. The expanding network highlights the effort to maximize Dutch participation in design, production, and sustainment.
The partnerships also advance the Industrial Cooperation Agreement between Naval Group and Amsterdam’s economic affairs agency. The initiative is meant to strengthen domestic expertise, create long-term maintenance independence, and deepen maritime cooperation between the Netherlands and France as the Orka-class program progresses.
As part of its new role, Nevesbu will engineer several advanced submarine subsystems, furthering the company’s nearly 90-year legacy in Dutch undersea technology. Its work will address complex challenges such as noise suppression, stealth optimization, and high-precision system integration, all vital for a submarine expected to operate quietly in tight internal conditions.
Meanwhile, Van Halteren Technologies will deliver essential mechanical and support hardware. Its contributions include central hydraulic power units, refrigeration and freezing equipment, anchor handling systems, and capstans, each designed and manufactured in-house to meet stringent standards for shock resistance, durability, and compact installation aboard the new submarines.
