For the second time in a brief period, the Royal Netherlands Navy is escorting Russian ships passing the Netherlands via the North Sea. Patrol vessel DSS Galatea is currently escorting tanker General Skobolev and the frigate Boiky (Steregushchy class).
Both vessels entered Dutch waters from the south. The navy is keeping a close eye on them until they leave the Dutch portion of the European Exclusive Zone (EEZ). Allies will then take over.
In recent days, the DSS Galatea also escorted two other Russian vessels out of the North Sea. These also entered Dutch waters via the south and left via the north.
Permanent task
The Ministry of Defence has had a permanent role in the North Sea since July 2023. Escorting non-NATO units through the Dutch EEZ is one of these roles. This is done in coordination with allies and when necessary. In this way, the Netherlands demonstrates vigilance and prevents Russian ships from sabotaging submarine infrastructure.
DSS Galatea
The DSS Galatea is a civilian ship that the Ministry of Defence has been leasing since last year, in anticipation of two multifunctional support vessels. These are expected to arrive next year. Thanks to a special leasing arrangement, the so-called “government ship” is authorized to perform detection, escort, guidance, and monitoring duties.