Design of uncrewed vessels for new ASW frigates gets underway

3 August 2026 – Each of the Royal Netherlands Navy’s new Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) frigates will be equipped with a 12-metre-long uncrewed surface vessel (USV). A so-called FLASH dipping sonar from Thales, which is yet to be adapted, will be installed on this USV. The Ministry of Defence today gave the go-ahead for Dutch Naval Design (DND) to commence the design work and, at the same time, to finalise the procurement of the FLASH dipping sonar. DND is a partnership between the Ministry of Defence, industry, academia and research institutions.

A number of parties within Dutch Naval Design had submitted a proposal under the name USV Alliance. These companies and research institutions have different profiles in terms of size, technical focus and background. Together, they possess the skills, knowledge and expertise relevant to this project.

Dipping sonars

When designing the new 12-metre-long uncrewed vessels, the builders must take the integration of various new systems into account from the outset. One example is the Compact Flash sonar from Thales Underwater Systems France. These dipping sonars extend the frigate’s field of view without revealing the vessel’s location.

Uncrewed surface vessels are set to play a major role in future anti-submarine warfare. The Royal Netherlands Navy can deploy them for tasks such as detecting and tracking enemy submarines. The navy also uses the vessels as a deterrent in areas where there is a high concentration of submarines. In this way, the USVs make a significant difference in improving the effectiveness and efficiency of operations.

 Anti-submarine warfare

With uncrewed vessels, the new ASW frigates extend their range and improve their responsiveness. This strengthens the operational capability of the maritime forces.

Images courtesy NL MoD and Thales