The HNLMS De Ruyter (F804) has become the first ship of the Royal Netherlands Navy to launch a Tomahawk cruise missile, according to the Dutch Ministry of Defense.

The test launch occurred on March 11 off the east coast of the United States, near Norfolk.

The Ministry of Defense stressed that this was the first time a Dutch Navy ship had launched a missile of this type.

The test was conducted to gather the necessary information and telemetry data for the planned integration of Tomahawk missiles on Dutch Navy ships.

“The Tomahawk long-range weapon allows the Navy to destroy strategic targets from the sea, including command centers, air defense systems, and enemy units. Its range exceeds 1,000 kilometers,” the Ministry of Defense stated.

The integration of these cruise missiles is expected to enhance the combat capabilities of the Royal Netherlands Navy and help deter potential adversaries.The launch was carried out under the supervision of the U.S. Navy, in cooperation with the Dutch Ministry of Defense project team.

Tomahawk for the Netherlands

Militarnyi previously reported that the Netherlands announced plans to purchase American Tomahawk cruise missiles in April 2023 to increase its naval forces’ strike range.

It was also revealed that several checks would be required to ensure compatibility and make design adjustments for installing the missiles on Dutch frigates and submarines.

Currently, all four De Zeven Provinciën-class frigates in service are set to be equipped with the new missiles after undergoing modernization, which is scheduled for between 2025 and 2029.

Two of the Netherlands’ four Walrus-class submarines are also planned for upgrades to carry the Tomahawk missiles.

However, this integration will depend on the availability of a missile version suitable for underwater launches from torpedo tubes.

For more details about the American Tomahawk cruise missile and its modifications, read the article “The Axe of Democracy: The Tomahawk Cruise Missile” by Militarnyi.