Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Chapter · 4:15-5:37

ASWF: an anti-submarine frigate for the Netherlands and Belgium

ASWF's submarine-hunting role differs from Dutch air-warfare frigates, while earlier missile-fit proposals raise questions about self-defence.

Anti-Submarine WarfareAswf FrigatesBelgian NavyDe Zeven Provincien Class FrigatesDutch NavyFrigatesKarel Doorman Class FrigatesVertical Launch Systems
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Notes

ASWF's role is anti-submarine warfare for Dutch and Belgian service. Its mission differs from that of the De Zeven Provinciën air-warfare frigates, so comparisons need to account for their different duties. Earlier proposals included eight VLS cells and an even more austere Belgian requirement. A possible version without VLS also appears in the recollection, although the country considering it remains unclear. These proposals raise the question of how much self-defence an ASW specialist needs. The replacement of the Karel Doorman class provides the programme's immediate context.