The signing of a £2.4 billion maritime partnership between the UK and the Netherlands has sent shockwaves across the defence landscape, marking a significant boost to British shipbuilding and NATO's capabilities. The agreement, signed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten during a crucial NATO leaders' meeting in Ankara, will see the construction of next-generation amphibious transport ships in UK yards, based on a Dutch design.
The joint project, which forms the backbone of an enhanced UK-Netherlands amphibious force, will equip each nation with four 160-metre, 15,000-tonne vessels. These state-of-the-art ships will be capable of transporting troops, vehicles, and equipment, including advanced drones, while their flight decks can accommodate current and future long-range autonomous systems. This cutting-edge technology aligns with the Royal Navy's shift towards a more hybrid naval force.
Prime Minister Starmer stressed that this strategic collaboration would provide long-term security for both nations and ensure they remain ahead of emerging threats. He highlighted the benefits to British industry, praising the role of UK shipyards in delivering these platforms for elite amphibious forces, thus sustaining valuable jobs domestically. Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis MBE MP echoed his commitment, underlining that the shared equipment and joint exercises would enable forces to "fight and win together," thereby bolstering regional safety.
This enhanced partnership builds upon decades of maritime cooperation through the UK-Netherlands Amphibious Force – Europe's longest-running integrated military unit. The commonality of operating the same amphibious transport ships is deemed vital for deeper integration, facilitating more effective joint training, deployment, and operations. This integration is expected to significantly improve NATO's capacity for rapid crisis response.
Beyond the new vessels, the agreement will accelerate industrial and military cooperation on autonomous and uncrewed technology. This initiative aims to bolster the defence industries in both nations, helping them maintain a technological edge against evolving threats. As close NATO and Joint Expeditionary Force allies, both countries are committed to working together to protect critical undersea infrastructure and deter threats, particularly in the North Atlantic and High North regions.
The partnership follows a recent deal between the UK and Norway for five Type 26 vessels, also built in UK yards, supporting an estimated 4,000 British jobs. This latest agreement underscores the UK's ongoing investment in a hybrid navy through its Defence Investment Plan, aiming to transform the Royal Navy into a technologically advanced force combining conventional and cutting-edge capabilities.