The United States government has authorized the potential sale of new Tomahawk Block V missiles to equip the Royal Netherlands Navy. The operation would be carried out through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, under which the Dutch government is expected to invest approximately US$2.19 billion. This was communicated by the U.S. Department of State to Congress via the usual publicly accessible notice, which was issued last Friday, April 25.
Based on some specifics of the Dutch request, the package would include a batch of 163 Tomahawk Block V missiles, 12 Tomahawk Block IV missiles, and 10 Tomahawk Tactical Weapons Control Systems (TTWCS). Additionally, the approved package includes new KIV-18A satellite data link terminals, KSX-5 integrated secure transmission systems, and KGV-135A communications security devices, along with the necessary logistical support and training to ensure operational capability of the systems.
Regarding this potential deal, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) stated: “This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO Ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe (…) The proposed sale will enhance the Netherlands’ ability to address current and future threats by employing long-range, conventional, land-attack missiles with stand-off capability that can neutralize emerging threats.”
As for the main contractor involved in the operation, the official notice points to RTX Corporation, headquartered in Tucson, Arizona. It is further noted that the U.S. government is aware of offset agreements associated with the deal; however, there are no plans to send additional U.S. government or contractor representatives to the Netherlands.
Lastly, it is worth recalling that Royal Netherlands Navy personnel have already had initial contact with Tomahawk missiles aboard one of their LCF frigates, the Zr.Ms. De Ruyter (F804). As we reported in March, the ship conducted its first launch of these missiles with support from U.S. Navy personnel, the main objective being to test the compatibility of the weapon system with the De Zeven Provinciën-class frigates—a milestone that was originally planned for last year. Should the acquisition proceed, the Dutch ships will gain a new strike capability with a range of up to 1,000 kilometers, expected to be deployed from the Lockheed Martin Mk 41 Vertical Launch Systems (VLS).
Images used for illustrative purposes
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