Naval Group has signed a strategic contract with Dutch defense systems integrator RH Marine to advance the Replacement of the Netherlands Submarine Capability (RNSC) program. The agreement, concluded on September 25, covers RH Marine’s contribution to the construction of four next-generation Orka-class conventionally-propelled submarines for the Royal Netherlands Navy.
RH Marine’s Contribution to Orka-Class Development
Under the contract, RH Marine will provide its expertise in platform automation, power distribution, and integrated system solutions. The company’s long-standing cooperation with the Royal Netherlands Navy ensures it will play a pivotal role in sustaining operational excellence and lifecycle support for the Orka-class fleet.
Strengthening the Dutch Industrial Base
The partnership supports Dutch autonomy in submarine maintenance and future upgrades, while reinforcing knowledge-sharing between Dutch and French naval industries. An expanding network of Dutch companies—including specialists in hydraulics, acoustic cladding, energy management, detection systems, and composite structures—are actively contributing to the RNSC program. This industrial cooperation reflects commitments made under the 2024 Industrial Cooperation Agreement (ICA) with the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs.
Industry Leaders Highlight Strategic Importance
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“We highly value the expertise and innovation of RH Marine and look forward to working together to deliver the Orka-class submarines to the Royal Netherlands Navy,” said Mark Donderwinkel, Country Director Netherlands at Naval Group.
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“This contract not only strengthens our partnership with Naval Group, but also underlines our ambition to provide innovative and future-proof solutions for the Royal Netherlands Navy,” stated Koen Staffeleu, Business Unit General Manager Naval at RH Marine.
Naval Group: European Naval Leader
With annual revenues of €4.35 billion and a workforce of more than 16,700 employees worldwide, Naval Group is a leading naval defense contractor specializing in the design, construction, support, and modernization of submarines and surface combatants. Its broad expertise in naval platforms and systems integration underpins its role as a key partner for nations seeking to enhance maritime sovereignty.
