The Dutch defense industry is set to receive a substantial boost with the recent signing of the Industrial Cooperation Agreement (ICA) between The Netherlands and Naval Group. This agreement lays the foundation for a partnership that will not only modernize the Dutch submarine fleet but also foster long-term collaboration between Dutch high-tech companies and Naval Group, a global leader in naval defense. This milestone is critical not only for the Royal Netherlands Navy but also for the Netherlands Defense Technological and Industrial Base (NLDTIB). Optics11 is proud to be a part of this landmark project.
As a key player in the Netherlands’ cutting-edge defense and maritime sectors, Optics11 has been included in the ICA, formalizing our participation in the Orka program. Optics11 is tasked with delivering advanced towed arrays, which are critical components for the next generation of expeditionary submarines that will replace the aging Walrus-class fleet. These submarines, developed by Naval Group based on the Barracuda family design, are set to enhance the Royal Netherlands Navy’s capabilities in maritime defense.
Mark Jacobs, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Optics11, emphasized the importance of this collaboration during the signing ceremony. “We experienced a very fruitful cooperation with Naval Group and Thales during the bidding phase, and being included in the ICA is a good acknowledgment of that work. With this signature, we formalize our collaboration and ensure our participation in the Orka program by delivering the towed arrays.”
This agreement represents a significant commitment by Naval Group to strengthen the Dutch defense industry over the next two decades. With key partnerships involving large companies, SMEs, and research institutions across the Netherlands, the ICA paves the way for Dutch innovation to thrive in the design, development, and production of submarines and surface vessel systems. Optics11 is particularly proud to contribute its expertise in high-performance sensing technologies, which will play a vital role in the new submarines’ capabilities.
The partnership between Naval Group and the NLDTIB is also a strategic move to ensure increased autonomy for the Netherlands in the defense sector. The involvement of Dutch companies like Optics11 demonstrates the strength and innovation present within the Netherlands’ industrial base. Our technology will not only contribute to the performance of these submarines but also support the long-term lifecycle of these vessels, ensuring that the Dutch Navy remains at the cutting edge of defense technology for decades to come.
The significance of the ICA and the Orka program has been highlighted by leading publications, including the FD and EDR Magazine, showcasing the importance of this project for the country’s defense strategy.
With the ICA now in place, Optics11 looks forward to continuing its collaboration with Naval Group, contributing to the development of state-of-the-art systems for the Royal Netherlands Navy and further establishing the Netherlands as a hub for defense innovation and technological advancement. This partnership stands as a testament to the Dutch industry’s ability to deliver world-class solutions in one of the most challenging fields of modern engineering.
About Optics11
Optics11 is the world leader in fiber optic sensing technology for ultra-sensitive early warning systems. Operating from the Netherlands, a country renowned for high-tech industry and maritime innovation, Optics11 works passionately to help protect our sea-lanes, critical offshore infrastructure, and energy supply against disruption.
