RNLN photo

Air defense and command frigate HNLMS De Ruyter launched a Tomahawk missile March 11. This happened off the coast of Virginia. It was the first time a Dutch navy ship fired this type of missile.

With the test launch, the navy is gathering the necessary information. This will eventually allow it to fire Tomahawks from the air defense and command frigates.

With the Tomahawk long-range weapons, the navy can eliminate (strategic) targets deep inland from the sea. Think of command centers, anti-aircraft installations, and enemy units. The missiles have a range of more than 1,000 kilometers. The weapon gives the Royal Navy extra combat power. This contributes to the deterrence of potential opponents.