# Dutch Ministry of Defence Delays ASWF Frigate Deliveries

The Dutch Ministry of Defence has announced a three-year delay in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Frigate (ASWF) program, pushing the first delivery to 2033 due to design challenges. To mitigate impacts, the Ministry is considering reallocating industrial capacity from the cancelled German F126 frigate program, with Damen Naval as the prime contractor for the latter. Meanwhile, the Belgian Ministry of Defence is still evaluating its participation in the ASWF program and exploring alternative frigate options, with a final decision expected by the end of 2026. This delay and ongoing evaluation affect procurement timelines and industrial planning for both Dutch and Belgian naval modernization efforts.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should anticipate extended timelines for ASWF contract awards and deliveries, impacting scheduling and resource allocation.
- The potential reallocation of industrial capacity from the cancelled German F126 program may create subcontracting or partnership opportunities for defense contractors.
- Belgian defense contractors and suppliers should prepare for possible shifts in procurement strategy depending on Belgium's final decision by late 2026.
- Organizations involved in naval shipbuilding and defense supply chains should monitor developments to align business strategies with evolving program requirements and timelines.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 26, 2026

### Government Entities
- Dutch Ministry of Defence
- Belgian Ministry of Defence
- Dutch House of Representatives

### Vendors
- Damen Naval (prime contractor for F126 frigate program)
- Fincantieri (potential supplier of Italian FREMM EVO frigates)

### Key Quotes
> Maintaining deep naval cooperation between the two partner nations remains a priority for both defense establishments.
> — Derk Boswijk, State Secretary of Defence

### Sources
- [Dutch ASWF Frigate Program Faces Further Delays as Belgium Evaluates Options - Naval News](https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2026/09/dutch-aswf-frigate-program-delays-belgium-evaluates-options) - navalnews.com