The Netherlands Choose French F21 Mk2 Torpedoes for Orka Submarines Instead of American Torpedoes

The Dutch Ministry of Defense has announced its selection of the French F21 Mk2 heavy torpedo to equip its future Orka-class submarines.

This decision means abandoning the initial plan to integrate American Mk48 torpedoes, which are currently in service with the Royal Netherlands Navy on Walrus-class submarines, according to Naval News.

The decision to replace the type of weaponry was made due to the accelerated arsenal upgrade. The military department plans to integrate the torpedo directly into four new submarines during their construction, avoiding additional costs to adapt the old weaponry to the new platform.

The French company Naval Group will supply the selected torpedo. An important factor was that this company is involved in the construction of the Orka-class submarines themselves. This will ensure maximum compatibility of the fire control systems and combat units of the vessel with the main weapons.

The choice of the F21 Mk2 will also contribute to deepening military cooperation between the Netherlands and France. As partners in the EU and NATO, the countries will use an identical weapons system.

F21 Mk2 torpedoes

The F21 Mk2 is a modern heavy torpedo with a standard caliber of 533 mm. The weapon is designed to engage submarines and surface ships at both great depths and in coastal shallow waters.

The device’s maximum speed exceeds 50 knots (93 km/h), and its destructive range exceeds 50 km. The torpedo uses an advanced acoustic homing head capable of distinguishing the target from false interference and countermeasures.