UK and Netherlands Sign £2.4 Billion Deal to Build New Amphibious Transport Ships

en.Wedoany.com Reported - The UK and the Netherlands have signed a maritime partnership agreement to jointly build new amphibious transport ships as part of a £2.4 billion ($3.2 billion) deal. The vessels are based on a Dutch design and will be constructed by UK shipyards in collaboration with Dutch industry partners.

The UK Ministry of Defence stated that the new ships will form the core of the Anglo-Dutch amphibious force, with each country operating four vessels. Each ship, measuring 160 meters in length and weighing 15,000 tons, will be capable of transporting troops, vehicles, and equipment—including drones—to any required location. The UK Ministry of Defence noted that the flight deck of each ship will be designed to operate current and future long-range drones and autonomous systems, supporting the Royal Navy's transition to a hybrid naval force.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten jointly signed the agreement. Starmer stated that this partnership is about ensuring long-term security for the UK and the Netherlands, enabling both countries to stay ahead of future threats. The UK Ministry of Defence pointed out that operating identical amphibious transport ships is key to the integration of the UK and Dutch navies, as well as the drones and unmanned technologies that both countries will develop in the future.