Tomahawk Missiles Sale: Enhancing Netherlands Military Power
The US State Department has given the green light for a significant arms deal with the Netherlands, approving the potential sale of up to 175 Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles. Valued at approximately $2.19 billion, the agreement encompasses 163 advanced Tomahawk Block Vs, 12 Block IV variants, and 10 Tactical Tomahawk weapons control systems, along with crucial supporting equipment and services.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, this proposed sale is expected to bolster the Netherlands’ ability to confront both current and anticipated threats. By acquiring long-range conventional surface-to-surface missiles with substantial standoff capabilities, the Netherlands aims to neutralize growing threats effectively.
Enhanced Military Capabilities
The Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) is essential for long-range land-attack missions, being mobile and deployable from both surface warships and submarines. The Block IV (TLAM-E), introduced to the US Navy’s arsenal in 2004, boasts a striking range of 900 nautical miles (1,667 kilometers) and carries a powerful 1,000-pound (453-kilogram) warhead. What’s particularly notable is its advanced in-flight reprogramming capability via two-way satellite communications, allowing it to adjust its mission mid-flight and engage up to 15 pre-programmed targets.
Additionally, the Block IV missile’s ability to assess damage using an onboard camera makes it a cutting-edge weapon system, providing the Netherlands with unprecedented targeting flexibility and intelligence-gathering options.
Block V Variants: Upgraded Features
The Block V Tomahawk variant represents a significant leap in technology, featuring enhanced navigation and communication systems along with advanced in-flight targeting capabilities. Launched in 2021, the Block V series comprises two models: the maritime-focused Block Va and the land-attack oriented Block Vb.
Specifically, the Block Va is equipped with a new seeker adept at targeting moving surface assets, whereas the Block Vb is designed with a joint multi-effects warhead, allowing it to engage a diverse array of land-based targets effectively.
Successful Test-Firing from Dutch Warship
In March, the Royal Netherlands Navy conducted a successful test-firing of a Tomahawk missile from a De Zeven Provincien-class frigate. This test was integral in ensuring the seamless integration of the missile system into their existing fleet.
The Dutch Ministry of Defence highlighted the significance of this capability, stating, “With Tomahawk long-range weapons, the navy can eliminate targets located deep inland from the sea, including command centers and enemy units. The missiles’ impressive range exceeds 1,000 kilometers (621 miles), greatly enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Royal Netherlands Navy and serving as a deterrent against potential adversaries.”}]},{
