The Royal Netherlands Navy will equip its existing fleet with new Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UASs) in the short term. The systems will improve the ships’ ability to defend themselves against drone attacks.
The Dutch Ministry of Defence and the supplier have now formally signed the contract.
The threat posed by drones at medium range is increasing. This is evident from both operational analyses and the current threat picture during maritime operations. Naval vessels therefore need additional capabilities to defend themselves effectively when operating as part of a fleet.
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Drone interceptor
The project will provide a kinetic C-UAS capability for the specified range. This means destroying an incoming hostile object in the air. The system consists of a base station and a launch platform for firing a drone interceptor. The C-UAS will be further developed through testing. Converting a land-based C-UAS into a variant for operational use at sea marks another step forward for the Ministry of Defence.
The new system will complement the Navy’s existing weapon systems, allowing it to better protect itself and its allies.
Picture: Visual of an anti-drone system (image by the Dutch Ministry of Defence).
Also read: NL and UK to jointly procure amphibious transport ships
