The Royal Netherlands Navy has selected the French-made F21 Mk2 torpedo to arm its upcoming Orka-class submarine fleet, dropping an earlier proposal to reuse the American Mk48 torpedo currently installed on the Walrus-class submarine.
The Dutch Ministry of Defence said the decision was based on an assessment that replacing the Mk48 sooner than anticipated was technically and operationally viable. It also highlights strengthening defense ties with France, whose navy already operates the F21 system, enabling closer cooperation and knowledge exchange.
Developed by Naval Group and introduced into service in 2019, the F21 Mk2 uses fiber-optic wire guidance that provides higher bandwidth and improved resistance to electronic interference compared with the Mk48’s copper-wire guidance system. The torpedo is powered by an electric propulsion unit, which produces a significantly lower acoustic signature than the combustion-engine-driven Mk48.
The 1.5-ton weapon is capable of targeting both surface vessels and submarines in deep-water and coastal environments. It can travel at speeds of up to 50 knots (93 kilometers/58 miles per hour) and uses onboard processing to navigate complex underwater scenarios. The system offers a maximum range of 31 nautical miles (57 kilometers/35 miles) and operates at depths ranging from 10 to 500 meters (33 to 1,630 feet).
In 2024, the Netherlands ordered four Orka-class submarines under a program valued at approximately 4 billion euros ($4.65 billion) to replace its aging Walrus-class fleet, with the first boat expected to be delivered in 2033. Based on the Barracuda-class submarine design from Naval Group, the program represents the first Dutch submarine construction project to be carried out at an overseas shipyard.
The diesel-electric vessels will displace roughly 3,300 tons and measure 82 meters (269 feet) in length with a beam of 8.2 meters (27 feet). Alongside heavyweight torpedoes, the submarines will also be equipped with land-attack cruise missiles, enhancing their strike capabilities. ⚓
