The Walrus-class submarines are a class of diesel-electric submarines currently in service with the Royal Netherlands Navy. They have been in operation since the 1990s, and it’s possible that the Netherlands is exploring options for the construction of new submarines or the modernization of the existing fleet.
When governments initiate such projects, they typically invite shipyards to submit proposals outlining their capabilities, expertise, and proposed designs. These proposals are evaluated based on factors such as technical capabilities, cost, timeline, and local industrial benefits.
To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on the Netherlands’ plans for Walrus submarine construction, I recommend consulting official sources, Dutch defense publications, or reputable news outlets that cover naval affairs and defense contracting.
The Netherlands Ministry of Defence has submitted a request for quotations (RFQ) to three shipbuilders for its Walrus-class submarine replacement program.
The request was received by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, Saab Kockums, and Naval Group, who were shortlisted in 2019 for the initiative.
Following the RFQ, the Dutch government will analyze each proposal and then select one of the shipyards to build four NATO and European Union-compliant submarines by 2023.
According to the ministry, the most critical standard is the involvement of Dutch businesses in developing, constructing, and maintaining the Walrus vessels “to strengthen the country’s technological and industrial base.”
The company selected will also be required to sign an agreement with the Netherlands Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy to abide by additional requirements.
“It is an important project and a lot of money. That is why we did not take any chances during the request for quotation to determine what kind of submarines we want and how much we are willing to pay for it,” explained Christophe van der Maat, State Secretary of the Netherlands.
“In addition, we want the boat to be able to be armed, that the boats are delivered on time and that the Dutch industry is involved in the construction and maintenance. This milestone heralds the next phase.”
Replacing Walrus-Class Submarines
In October, the Netherlands announced the preparation of the RFQ for the Walrus submarine program.
The defense ministry expects the first two Walrus vessels to be delivered construction 10 years after the contract award.
Meanwhile, two of the four existing Walrus units will be decommissioned. Their parts will be used for the remaining submarines, which will continue in service until the replacements are completed.
