Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:42:33-2:42:47

Two separate Dutch frigate replacement programs

The Belgian-Dutch frigate program replaces the M class, while De Zeven Provinciën and Germany's Sachsen class belong to a separate replacement effort.

Belgian Dutch CooperationBelgian NavyDe Zeven Provinciën Class Frigates (2002)Frigate ReplacementGerman Dutch CooperationGerman NavyM Class FrigatesNaval ProcurementRoyal Netherlands NavySachsen Class Frigates
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Question

Is the Belgian-Dutch joint frigate replacing the De Zeven Provinciën class?

Short answer

No. It replaces the M class, while De Zeven Provinciën and Sachsen replacements are being developed through a separate Dutch-German effort.

Notes

The Belgian-Dutch joint frigate program is intended to replace the M-class frigates. De Zeven Provinciën belongs to a different future program. Its successor is discussed alongside Germany's replacement for the Sachsen class, with entry expected from about 2035 in the episode's account. Keeping the two partnerships separate avoids confusing a near-term M-class replacement with the later air-defence requirement.