Belgian Navy Faces Capability Gap as New Frigate Program Faces Delays

(MENAFN) Belgium’s naval forces risk operating without any active frigates for a period of several years due to continued delays in a joint warship procurement program with the Netherlands, according to reports.

The first of the new vessels is now expected to be delivered no earlier than 2034, representing a delay of around seven years compared with original timelines, as reported by Dutch media sources.

Belgium and the Netherlands had jointly commissioned four anti-submarine warfare frigates from a Dutch shipbuilder, but construction schedules have reportedly been pushed back again by the Dutch defense authorities.

At present, the Belgian navy operates two frigates, Leopold I and Louise-Marie, both of which have recently participated in NATO operations, including deployments in the Baltic region.

However, reports indicate that both ships are nearing the end of their operational lifespan and are unlikely to remain in service into the mid-2030s, raising concerns about a temporary loss of key naval capability.

To address potential gaps, authorities are reportedly considering interim solutions such as converting minehunters for expanded roles or leasing frigates from partner countries.

The cost of the new fleet has also risen significantly. Initial estimates of around €600 million per ship have increased to approximately €1 billion, with additional projected expenses pushing overall costs higher still.

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