The Royal Dutch Navy, Damen, RH Marine, Royal IHC and Thales signed a letter of intent on 18 July to intensify maintenance cooperation. With this cooperation, also called Maritime Maintenance Valley, the navy aims to adapt faster to changes in the world.
Stuff must work
Not surprisingly, Commander of the Naval Forces Vice-Admiral René Tas began by expressing his concerns about the growing threat. "The West has taken itself by surprise more often in the past," he said. To avoid that, when it comes down to it, "the stuff has to work".
First step
The agreement marks the first step towards long-term cooperation to ensure maritime security. For the navy, it means a major renewal in the coming years. The fleet will be almost completely replaced. At the same time, maintenance of the existing equipment will also continue.
The ultimate goal is to achieve more synergy, efficiency and effectiveness. This not only in maintenance, but also in maintaining the navy's weapon systems. This will ensure worldwide support for ships in trouble.
