De Zeven Provinciën Class Frigate

Dutch air defense and command frigates equipped with advanced versions of the American Aegis combat system — representing the most capable surface combatants in Royal Netherlands Navy and among Europe's most powerful frigates. Four vessels in class: De Zeven Provinciën, Tromp, De Ruyter, and Evertsen (commissioned 2002-2005). Displacement of 6,050 tonnes with length of 144 metres. Features APAR (Active Phased Array Radar) four-panel X-band AESA radar providing 360-degree coverage and simultaneous tracking/guidance of multiple targets, SMART-L long-range L-band surveillance radar detecting targets at 400+ km (upgraded to MM/BMD variant detecting ballistic missiles at 2,000+ km), Mk 41 VLS with 40 cells for SM-2 Block IIIA missiles (170+ km range) and Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (50 km), 8x Harpoon anti-ship missiles, 127mm main gun, Goalkeeper CIWS for close-in defense, torpedoes, and comprehensive electronic warfare. Accommodations for NH90 helicopter. Propulsion via CODOG (diesel and gas turbines) providing 30+ knot speed. Crew of 200-250. The APAR/SMART-L radar combination provides exceptional air defense capability rivaling US Navy Aegis ships. Dutch frigates serve as air defense escorts for carrier strike groups and NATO task forces. Recent upgrades include ballistic missile defense capability and cooperative engagement. Regularly deploy on NATO missions, counter-piracy operations, and Dutch Caribbean security.