Dutch Navy Frigate Fires Tomahawk Missile for First Time

The Dutch navy's air defense and command frigate Zr.Ms. De Ruyter fired a Tomahawk missile for the first time during a test off the coast of Norfolk, U.S., yesterday.

The Tomahawk, with a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers, allows the navy to strike inland targets such as command centers, air defenses, and enemy units.

The test follows the Dutch Ministry of Defense’s (MoD) 2022 Strategic Defence Review, which identified the need for long-range, precision-guided weapons for frigates and submarines. In March 2023, the Royal Netherlands Navy’s commander confirmed approval for the maritime strike capability project, with Tomahawk selected for both De Zeven Provinciën-class frigates and Walrus-class submarines.

The Dutch MoD announced the missile procurement in April 2023. The Harpoon anti-ship missile, currently in service, has a range of about 75 nautical miles, which the MoD described as insufficient for modern operational needs. The project aims to introduce a single Tomahawk variant for four LCF frigates and another for submarines. The Dutch submarines, unlike their U.S. counterparts, will launch the missile from torpedo tubes.

The initial test launch for the frigates was planned for 2024, with the submarine-launched version expected by 2029, depending on the availability of the Torpedo Tube Launch (TTL) Tomahawk. If delays occur, the Dutch MoD may reconsider retrofitting current submarines before their retirement, ensuring future RNLN submarines can deploy long-range missiles.

The Tomahawk Block IV, the version tested, features mid-flight retargeting and the ability to transmit real-time battlefield images. The U.S. and allied forces have tested the missile 550 times and used it in combat over 2,300 times, including the 2018 strikes on Syrian chemical facilities.

All Block IV missiles are being upgraded to Block V, which extends service life by 15 years and enhances capabilities. The Block V variant includes upgraded navigation and communication. The Block Va version adds maritime strike capability for hitting moving naval targets, while the Block Vb version features a multi-effects warhead for diverse land targets.

The U.K. Royal Navy is currently the only foreign user of the Tomahawk, but both Australia and Japan are also acquiring the missile.