The Netherlands Ministry of Defence and Naval Group sign a contract for the procurement of F21 torpedoes

On 16th June 2026, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence and Naval Group signed a contract for the supply of new-generation F21 heavyweight torpedoes. These weapons will equip the Orka-class submarines, allowing the Royal Netherlands Navy to become the first NATO SSK fleet to operate the F21.

“With this contract, we further deepen our strategic partnership and we look forward to the next phases of our cooperation” – Pierre Éric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group.

“The weapon system will be integrated into the future Orka-class submarines, enhancing the capabilities of the Royal Netherlands Navy.” – Vice Admiral Jan Willem Hartman, Commander of COMMIT.

Qualified in 2019, the F21 is currently operated on French navy’s SSNs and SSBNs as well as the Brazilian Navy’s SSKs. While it is the natural reference of Naval Group’s offering, its integration can also be offered on other submarines for modernisation projects. Naval Group will support the navy to autonomously operate and maintain their torpedoes through training and simulators. Finally, Naval Group’s commitment to engage the Netherlands industries on this new phase will be reflected in the amendment of the existing Industrial Cooperation Agreement.

This project highlights the technological trust and interoperability among NATO allies using cutting-edge equipment. It will also strengthen long-term local industrial cooperation, ensuring the operational autonomy of partner navies.