Dutch Navy frigate launches Tomahawk cruise missile for the first time
The frigate HNLMS De Ruyter (F804) became the first ship of the Royal Netherlands Navy to launch the Tomahawk cruise missile.
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The test launch took place on 11 March off the east coast of the United States near Norfolk. The defence ministry noted that this was the first time a Dutch navy ship had launched this type of missile.
The test launch of the US-made Tomahawk cruise missile was carried out to collect the necessary information and telemetry data in connection with the planned integration of these missiles on Dutch Navy ships.
BGM-109 Tomahawk in flight in November 2002. Illustration: ВМС США
"The Tomahawk's long-range capability allows the navy to destroy (strategic) targets from the sea. For example, think command centres, air defence installations and enemy units. The range of the missiles is more than 1,000 kilometres," the Dutch Ministry of Defence said.
It is noted that these cruise missiles will provide the Royal Navy with additional combat power. The possibility of their use will help deter potential adversaries.
The Tomahawk was launched from the frigate HNLMS De Ruyter (F804) under the leadership of the US Navy in cooperation with the project team of the Dutch Ministry of Defence.
Source: Ministry of Defence
