Netherlands Adds Tomahawk Missiles to Frigates, Plans Sub-Launched Strike System by 2032

The Netherlands is enhancing its maritime strike capabilities with the planned integration of Tomahawk cruise missiles into its future LC frigates and a new submarine-launched strike system set to enter service by 2032.

State Secretary for Defence Gijs Tuinman informed the House of Representatives on June 17 that the Tomahawk missile, manufactured by U.S. defense contractor Raytheon, will be acquired to equip the upcoming air defence and command frigates. The system is intended to improve precision strike options against difficult targets, both at sea and inland.

“The Tomahawk is currently the only cruise missile compatible with the launch systems of the LC frigates,” Tuinman noted. The long-range missile has a strike radius of more than 1,000 kilometers. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2028.

In parallel, the Dutch Ministry of Defence is also participating in the development of a new submarine-launched cruise missile system under the multinational 'Joint Strike Missile – Submarine Launched' (JSM-SL) program. Led by Spain, this collaborative effort involves several European countries and could include Dutch industry and research institutes.

The goal is to integrate this weapon system into the new Orka-class submarines, which are expected to enter service by 2032.

Defence has also confirmed that it will not retrofit the existing Walrus-class submarines with this new capability. The decision was made based on the aging boats' limited remaining service life and the complexity of integrating a modern missile system within that timeframe.

The twin approach—acquiring Tomahawks for surface vessels and developing a new strike missile for submarines—is part of a broader effort to strengthen the Netherlands’ long-range maritime precision strike potential.