First Belgian-Dutch rMCM vessel launched
The first of 12 Belgian-Dutch rMCM vessels, Oostende. (Photo: Naval Group)
On 29 March, Naval Group launched the first of 12 mine countermeasure vessels (MCMVs), M940 Oostende, under the Belgian-Dutch rMCM programme.
Destined for the Belgian Navy, the first ship is scheduled for delivery by the end of 2024 in Zeebrugge, and the remaining vessels will be staggered until 2030.
The timeline will see a new ship launched every six months.
On the same day, Naval Group also laid the keel for the third of 12 vessels, M941 Tournai.
Related Articles
Keel laid for first Belgian-Dutch rMCM minehunter
rMCM launch and recovery system undergoes tests
Naval Group eyes Gowind opportunities and hopes to close Romania deal
Belgium Naval & Robotics, a venture established by Naval Group and Exail, was awarded the rMCM programme in 2019.
Work under the programme includes the supply of 12 ships and a hundred uncrewed systems as part of an integrated toolbox that will equip the vessels.
As prime contractor, Naval Group is responsible for design of the ships, integration and testing and commissioning of the mission system.
Kership, a joint venture of Naval Group and Piriou, is building the 12 ships in Concarneau and Lanester.
Exail, as co-contractor, is charged with the uncrewed systems, assembling the majority in Ostend, Belgium.
France has also decided to build new mine warfare vessels based on the rMCM design.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Tripartite Class Replacement Programme [Netherlands]
Tripartite Class Replacement Programme [Belgium]
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Fincantieri and TKMS partner for Philippine submarine bid]()
Fincantieri and TKMS partner for Philippine submarine bid
The companies have banded together to promote the Fincantieri U212 NFS offering, and hinted that the collaboration may not be a one-bid phenomenon.
-
![Naval modernisation accelerates amid geopolitical tension and tech evolution]()
Naval modernisation accelerates amid geopolitical tension and tech evolution
The global naval market is undergoing a notable transformation, with growth driven by both escalating geopolitical tensions and the emergence of innovative technologies. Across NATO, but particularly in Europe, navies are accelerating modernisation efforts, spurred by renewed threats and persistent capability gaps.
-
![Two new European logistics support vessels enter sea trials]()
Two new European logistics support vessels enter sea trials
The two Logistic Support Ships (LSS), contracted under Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation, (OCCAR), should be commissioned into service later in 2025.
