The ASWF memorandum of understanding is dated June 2023. The delayed commissioning expectations quoted are 2033 for the Dutch ships and 2034 for the Belgian ships. Alex Clarke recalls reports received from Norway contrasting a slow but active British Type 26 programme with uncertainty about ASWF progress. These are second-hand comments, with no independent programme findings established here. A promising design and a functioning production programme offer different kinds of assurance to a prospective buyer. The concern matters because the Netherlands and Belgium need the replacement capability.
Notable Point · 13:15-14:11
ASWF delivery dates and programme maturity
Quoted ASWF delivery dates and second-hand Norwegian comments distinguish a promising design from a programme already building ships.