Damen Naval has awarded Van Halteren Technologies two contracts for the Anti-Submarine Warfare Frigate (ASWF) programme, focused on the delivery of Replenishment at Sea (RAS) systems and Helicopter Transfer Systems (HTS). The contracts are part of an initiative to develop advanced anti-submarine warfare vessels for the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Belgian Navy, with the ASWF set to establish a new European standard in naval defense.
Van Halteren Technologies was selected for its experience and previous successful collaborations. The company recently completed RAS testing for the Combat Support Ship (CSS) Den Helder, and its systems will play a key role in the integration of RAS receivers into the ASWF’s superstructures.
Based in Boxtel, the Dutch company specializes in the design and manufacture of technical solutions and systems for defense and industrial applications. The RAS systems are designed for the safe transfer of liquids and solids at sea under challenging naval conditions, while the HTS systems cater to both manned and unmanned helicopters.
The ASWF frigates are designed to replace the Karel Doorman class and will offer capabilities for anti-submarine warfare, surface and air threat countermeasures, and lower-intensity operations such as counter-piracy and anti-terrorism. The vessels will also feature advanced sensors, low acoustic signatures, and integrated automation.
The ASWF programme is seen as an example of EU defense cooperation, with opportunities for additional EU and NATO nations to participate. Damen Naval plans to deliver the first vessel by 2028.