Future of the Brazilian Navy

The largest Navy of South-America

Cartography
Of the entire Brazilian land aera, 55,460 km2 (21,410 sq mi) or +/- 6% were of water (rivers/lakes). Coastline 7,491 km (4,655 mi).

Personnal Strenght: 32 000+
+/- 29 000 sailors (+ 3000 conscript), Naval Aviation: +/- 1300.

1 Aircraft-Carrier
The Brazilian Navy is planning to build one (or two?, but unlikely) new aircraft-carriers by 2018/2030. A conventionally powered design with 2 catapults is very likely (+/- 40/50 000 tons). The only design seriously considered are :
- The Franco-British CVF design (in this case, the sale of HMS Queen Elizabeth is possible around 2015-2020).
- The French PA 02 design (probably built under technology transfer).
Wait & See...

1 Sao-Paulo
(Sao-Paulo), Ex-French Foch carrier, 24/32 000 tons, 260 meters, built by 19­60, transferred by 2000. In early Brazilian service, this ship experienced some technical problems (catapults, Machinery), upgraded by 2005-2010. Very likely to remain in service at least until late 2010’s/early 2020’s….

9 Frigates
Up to 5 Frigates
Under the PROSUPER program, a group of 5 newer +/- 6000 tons frigates expected to be (locally, likely under technology transfert) built by +/- 2015/2022. The main (serious) current candidates are: - French/DCNS Aquitaine/FREMM.
- Italian/Fincantieri Carlo Bergamini/FREMM.
- British/BAR Type 26 or the four "second-hand" Type 22 Batch III frigates ?
- German/ThyssenKrupp MEKO 125 or MEKO 500/600 ?
- Spanish/Navantia Alvaro de Bazan/F-100 or the newer F2M2 trimaran concept ?
- South-Korean/Hyundai/Daewoo KDX-II or KDX-IIA ?
Wait & See...

6 Niteroi
(Niteroi, Defensora, Constitucao, Liberal, Independencia, Uniao). 3500 tons, 129 meters (British Mk 10 Vosper frigate design). Commissioned by 1976/1980, with probable 30 year of life, now obsolete frigates, to be replaced by fewer (5) and biggers (up to 6000 tons) ships around 2016/2022.

3 Type 22
(Greenhalgh, Bosisio, Rademaker). 4400 tons, 131 meters (Ex-British Type 22 Batch I frigates commissioned by 1979/1982). Transferred by 1995/1997 (170 $ million for four ships, currently the fourth frigate was retired since 2004 and progressively cannibalized as spare part). To be retired by late 2010's and replaced by ?

Submarines (toward a full renewal)
Up to 1 SSN
Expected to be delivered around 2021/2024. Improved/enlarged design from the Brazilian Scorpene.

Up to 4 Scorpene
The first SSK was initially built in France, towed to Brazil for completion (around 2015). The three others were expected to be fully built in Brazil and delivered by 2018/2021.

5 Type 209
(Tupi, Tamoio, Timbira, Tapajo, Tikuna), 1800 tons, 64 meters, german SSK design of 1970’s. The first four were commissioned by 1989/1999. The last SSK (Tikuna, of Type 209/1400), were commissioned by 2005. Likely all expected to be retired around 2018/2025.

Corvettes/OPV
Up to 5 OPV
Under the PROSUPER program, a group of 5 newer 1800 tons OPV expected to be locally built by 2016/2022. The main (serious) current candidates are:
- A locally designed OPV (much improved Barroso design ?).
- Chilean/Asmar 80 meters OPV design.
- French/DCNS Gowind OPV.
- Spanish/Navantia Meteoro or POVZEE/Caribe or Guaicamacuto/BVL design ?
- a Italian/Fincantieri OPV design.
- a British/BAE OPV design (or maybe a deal for the 3 former OPV intended for Trinidad & Tobago ?
Wait & See...

4 Inhaúma
(Inhaúma, Jaceguai, Júlio de Noronha, Frontin), 1800 tons, 95 meters corvette (design help from Germany). Locally built, this class suffered from delays due to Brazilian shipyards/industry shorthcoming. Commissioned by 1989/1994, with probable 30 year of life, to be retired by late 2010’s/mid 2020’s.

1 Barroso
(Barroso), 2000+ tons, 103 meters, improved from the Inhaúma design (and suffered from the same problems…). Commissioned by 2008, with probable +/- 30 years of life, to remain in service until mid 2030’s.

+/- 5 Large Amphibious Ships
2 Ceará (LSD)
(Ceará, Rio de Janeiro), 7000/11 000 tons, 155 meters LSD (Ex-US ageing LSD of the Thomaston class built during the 1950’s). Transferred by 1989, now totally obsolete, These two ships should be replaced by the end of the 2010 decade by “second-hands” amphibious ships (maybe French Foudre/Sirocco or vessels or by newer ships (French Mistral, German, South-Korean Dokhdo…).

1 Mattoso Maia (LST)
(Mattoso Maia), 8000+ tons, 169 meters (Ex-US LST of the Newport class built by late 1960's), transferred by 2001; Now ageing ship, likely to be replaced by late 2010’s.

2 Ex-Sir class (LST)
(Almirante Sabóia , Garcia D'Avila), 6700/8000+ tons, 137/140 meters (Ex-British LST design, built by1960’s/1980’s), transferred by 2007/2009, likely to remain in Brazilian service at least until mid 2020’s.

Nota: The 3 ageing US LSD/LST were likely expected to be replaced by late 2010's/early 2020's by 2 or 3 newer amphibious ships (newer built or second-hands ships ?).
Wait & See...

Small Amphibious
3 LCU-1610
(Guarapari, Tambau, Camboriu), 200 tons, 41 meters, built by 1978/1989, now not used in a amphibious role but mainly for logistic transport.

5 LCM
(GED-801) 61 tons, 21 meters. LCM derived from the US LCM(8) design. All commissioned by 1994.

3 LCM(6)
24 tons, 17 meters.

+/- 30 EDVP (LCVP)
13 tons, 10+ meters.

6 Mine-Hunters
6 Aratu
(Aratu, Anhatomirim, Atalaia, Aracatuba, Abrolhos, Albardao). 250 tons, 47 meters, (German coastal mineweespers design). Commissioned by 1971/1975.

+/- 2 Fleet Tankers/Replenishment Ships
Up to 1 newer Fleet Tanker
Under the PROSUPER program, a newer Fleet Tanker were expected to be commissioned by 2015/2018. The main (serious) current candidates are:
- French/DCNS Brave design
- Italian/Fincantieri Etna or improved Etna design ?
- Spanish/Navantia Cantabria design ?
- British/BAE design ?
- Others ?
Wait & See...

1 Almirante Gastao Motta
(Almirante Gastao Motta), 8300 tons, 135 meters, built by 1991. Likely to remain in service until mid 2020's.

1 Marajo
(Marajo), 16 000 tons, 137 meters, built by 1968. Low Speed and unreliable engine. Status uncertain.

+/- 22 Mid-Shore Patrol Boats
Up to 6 Macae
(Macaé, Macau, Maracana, Maragogipe, Matinhos, Mangaratiba). 500 tons, 56 meters. Derived from the French P400 design. Commissioned since 2009.

6 Piratini
(Piratini, Piraja, Pampeiro, Parati, Penedo, Poti). 140+ tons, 29 meters. Derived from the USCG Cape Class, built by 1970/1971, likely to be retired by late 2010's.

12 Grajau
(Grajau, Guaiba, Grauna, Goiana, Guajara, Guaporé, Gurupa, Gurupi, Guanabara, Guaruja, Guaratuba, Gravatai). 210+ tons, 46 meters. Commissioned by 1993/2000, to remain in service until at least mid 2020's.

4 Bracui
(Bracui, Benevente, Bocaina, Babitonga). 630 tons, 47 meters. (Ex-British River class, 1980’s built), transferred by 1998, likely to be retired by late 2010's.

2 Amorin Do Valle (Survey Vessels)
(Amorin Do Valle, Taurus). 630 tons, 47 meters. Ex-British mineweepers transferred by 1995, likely to be retired by late 2010's.

+/- 160 In-Shore Patrol Boats
Up to 16 Avinpa-21
40 tons, 22 meters. Status of this program is uncertain.

+/- 144 LAEP
Few different models from 7 to 11 meters, built since mid 1990’s.

6 Tracker-20
39 tons, 20+ meters, built by 1991/1995.

10 Swift MkII
22 tons, 15 meters. 4 Ex-US transferred by 1972/1973, the six others built during 1980’s.

Others logistic/transports Ships
1 Atlantico Sul (Logistic Support Ship)
(Atlantico Sul). 39 000 tons, 188 meters. Acquired by 2001.

1 Para (Cargo Ship)
(Para), 1000 tons, 56 meters. Built by 1982, acquired by 2005.

1 Ary Parreiras (Transport Ship)
(Ary Parreiras), 6500 tons, 119 meters, built by 1956.

Others Auxiliary's
6 Paraibano (survey crafts)
(Paraibano, Rio-Branco, Nogueira Da Gama, Itacurussa, Camocim, Caravelas). 32 tons, 16 meters, built by 1968/1971.

1 Almirante Hess (Torpedo recovery craft)
(Almirante Hess), 91 tons, 23 meters, in service by 1983.

1 Trinidade (Target Vessel)
(Trinidade), 1300 tons, 53 meters. Former Oilfield supply tug. Seized by 1987.

1 Ary Rongel (Icebreaker)
(Ary Rongel). 3600 tons, 75 meters. Acquired by 1994.

1 Antares (Oceanographic ship)
(Antares). 855 tons, 55 meters. Acquired by 1988 (Sirius). 1400+ tons, 77+ meters, commissioned by 1958.

1 Felinto Perry (Submarine Rescue and Salvage Ship)
(Felinto Perry), 4000 tons, 77 meters, 1970’s built, acquired by 1988.

5 Oceanic Tugs
3 Tritao
(Tritao, Tridente, Triunfo), 1600 tons, 55 meters, commissioned by 1986/1987.

2 Almirante Guilhem
(Almirante Guilhem, Almirante Guillobel), 2400 tons, 63 meters, commissioned by 1981.

10 Coastal Tugs
4 Stantug 2207
(Intrepido, Arrojado, Valente, Impavido), 200 tons, 22 meters, built by 1992.

4 Comandante Marriog
(Comandante Marriog, Comandante Didier, Tenente Magalhaes, Cabo Schramm), 115 tons, 19 meters, built by 1981.

2 Isaias de Noronha
(Tenente Lahmeyer and ?), 100 tons, 32 meters, built by 1972/1974, status uncertain.

+/- 14 Training Ships
1 Cisne Branco (sailing)
Cisne Branco , 1000 tons, 76 meters, commissioned by 1999.

1 Brazil (training Frigate)
(Brazil). 3500 tons, 129 meters, a indigenously Brazilian design directly derived from the Niteroi class, mainly used for training. This ship suffered from serious delays/problems mainly due to initial Brazilian naval shipyard/industry shortcoming. Commissioned by 1986.

3 Rosca Fina
(Rosca Fina, Voga Picada, Leva Arriba), 130 tons, 18+ meters, built by 1983/1984.

3 Aspirante Nascimento
(Aspirante Nascimento, Guarda Marinha Jansen, Guarda Marinha Brito), 130 tons,28 meters, built by 1980/1981.

6 Ajuri (training crafts)
28 tons, 17+ meters, built by 1996/1997.

+/- 9 Personnel Transports ships
1 Sargento Borges
(Sargento Borges), 108 tons, 28 meters.

4 Rio-Pardo
(Rio-Pardo, Rio-Negro, Rio-Chui,Rio-Oiapoque), 150 tons 35 meters, built by 1975/1976.

6 Rio-Doce
(Rio-Doce, Rio-Das-Contas, Rio-Formoso, Rio-Real, Rio-Turvo, Rio-Veride), 150 tons, 36 meters, built by 1954/1955, status uncertain.

+/- 16 Navigational aid tenders/Buoy Tenders Launches
1 Garnier Sampaio (Navigationnal Tender)
(Garnier Sampaio), 630 tons, 47+ meters. Ex-British Mineweesper transferred by 1995.

1 Almirante Graca Aranha (Lighthouse/Buoy Tender)
(Almirante Graca Aranha). 1300 tons, 75 meters, commissioned by 1976.

10 Achernar
(Achernar, Aldebaran, Betelgeuse, Capella, Denebola, Pollux, Vega, Rigel, Regulus, Fomalhaut). 100 tons, 19 meters, commissioned by 1995/1998.

4 Comandante Varella
(Comandante Varella, Tenente Castelho, Comandante Manhaes, Tenente Boanerges).300 tons, 37 meters, built by 1982/1985. (Can be reconfigured as a minelayer).

Various Harbor crafts
6 Munitions Lighters (88 tons, 23 meters).
+/- 5 Water Tankers/Barge Few Floating Docks.

RIVERS/LAKES BRAZILIAN FLEET
2 Pedro Teixeira (Rivers Gunboats)
(Pedro Texeira, Raposo Tavares). 690 tons, 63 meters. Commissioned by 1973.

3 Roraima (Rivers Gunboats)
(Roraima, Rondonia, Amapa). 340 tons, 46 meters, built by 1975/1976.

1 Parnaiba (Rivers Gunboats)
(Parnaiba), 620 tons, 55 meters, built by 1938 and considered as a museum ship !

1 Piraim (River Transport)
(Piraim), 73 tons, 25 meters, built by 1982 Paraguassu, 200 tons, 40 meters, acquired by 1972.

1 Faroleiro Mario Seixas (Rivers Navigational tender)
(Faroleiro Mario Seixas), 240 tons, 25 meters, built 1962, acquired by 1979.

1 Doutoir Montenegro (River Hospital Ship)
(Doutoir Montenegro), 400 tons, 42 meters, built by 1997, acquired by 2001.

2 Oswaldo Cruz (River Hospital Ship)
(Oswaldo Cruz, Carlos Chagas), 500 tons, 47 meters, built by 1984.

1 Potengi (River Oiler)
(Potengi), 600 tons, 54 meters, built by 1938.

Brazilian Marines: +/- 14 000 troops
Amphibious Armored Vehicles: +/- 25 AAV-7 (13 AAV-7A1; 12 LVTP-7).
Light-Tanks: 17 SK-105 Kuerassier.
Reco Vehicles: 6 EE-9 Cascavel.
Armored Transport Vehicles: 40 M-113 (tracked); 5 EE-11 Urutu (Wheeled).
Heavy Artillery (155mm): 8 M-114.
Medium Artillery (105mm): 15 M-101; 18 L-118 Light Gun.
Mortars: 8 K6A3 (120mm) and some 81mm.
Recoiless Rifles: Some M-20 (89mm) and M-40A1 (106mm).

Brasilian Naval Aviation:
Aicrafts:
- 23 A4 Skyhawk (12 upgraded and expected to remain in service, others likely retired)

Helicopters:
- 4 S-70B Seahawk (8 others in option), delivered by 2009
- 16 EC 725BR (delivered by 2010/2012, 8 in anti-ships version and 8 in utility model)
- 5 AS-332 Super Puma 2 AS-532 Cougar
- 12 Super Lynx Mk.21A (some were upgraded)
- 26 AS350 Ecureuil (Esquilo) (18 single engine, 8 twin engine)
- 17 Bell 206B-3 Jet Ranger III.

Thanks to its economic development (and has a strong desire to develop its shipbuilding industry), the Brazilian Navy will most likely remain the most powerful navy in South-America at least during the first half of this century (and usually closely followed by the fleet Chilean)

Next fleet review/editorial: Future of the Chilean Navy.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the Spanish Navy

"El Corazon se debate entre el Atlantico y el Mediterraneo"

Cartography:
Of the entire Spanish land aera, 1, 04% (5,240 km2 (2,023 sq mi) is water (rivers/lakes).
Coastlines: 4964 km; EEZ aera: 551,874 (28,782 sq mi) km2

Personnal Strenght:
+/- 19 000 active (included naval aviation & marines) ; 9000 reserve.

1 Light Aicraft-Carriers (STOBAR/STOVL)
1 Principe de Asturias
(Principe de Asturias), 16 000+ tons, 195+ meters, VSTOL light-carrier of US 1970’s design. Commissioned by 1988, with probable +/- 30 year of service, to be retired by 2015, likely without direct replacement.

+/- 11 Destroyers/Frigates
Up to 6 F-110 ?
Currently under initial study, this future frigate design was intended to replace, by 2018/2026, all 6 FFG o the Santa-Maria class.
- The current design under study was a trimaran hull frigate (F2M2 design, by Navantia)

5 Alvaro de Bazan (F-100)
(Alvaro de Bazan, Almirante Juan de Borbon, Blas de Lezo, Mendez Nunez, Cristobal Colon), 6200 tons, 146 meters AAW frigate. Commissioned by 2002/2012, with probable +/- 30 year of service, to be retired around 2030/2040.

6 Santa-Maria (F-80)
(Santa-Maria, Victoria, Numancia, Reina Sofia, Navarra, Canarias), 3900 tons, 138 meters, ASW/AAW frigate (from US O.H.Perry design). Commissioned by 1986/1995, with probably +/- 30 year of service, to be retired around 2016/2025.

4 Submarines (toward a total renewal)
Up to 4 S-80
2200+ tons, 71 meters newer SSK design. All four expected to be commissioned by 2013/2016.

4 Galerna (S-70)
(Galerna, Sirocco, Mistral, Tramontana), 1500+ tons, 67 meters SSK (derived from the famous French Agosta 70 design. Commissioned by 1983/1985, with 30 year of service, to be replaced by the S-80 class around 2013/2016.

+/- 12 Corvette/Ocean Patrol-Vessels
Up to 8 ? Meteoro class

(Meteoro, Rayo, Relampago, Tornado, others currently not yet named). 2500 tons, 93+ meters, highly versatile OPV design (Light Corvette, OPV, Survey, Pollution, Intelligence...). First four expected to be commissioned by 2011/2012. Maybe ? the last four expected by 2015/2017.

4 Descubierta
(IInfanta-Elena, Infanta-Cristina, Cazadora, Vencedora). 1200+ tons, 88+ meters corvettes. Commissioned by 1979/1982, now all converted to Ocean Patrol-Boats (P-76/79). All expected to be retired by 2012/2015 and replaced by the Meteoro OPV.

4 Serviola
(Serviola, Centinela, Vigla, Atalya), 1200 tons, 68 meters OPV. Commissioned by 1991/1992, likely to be retired by late 2010's.

4 Chilreu (P-60)
(Chilreu, Alboran, Arnomendi, Tarifa), 67 meters, 2400 tons large trawlers style. Commissioned by 1992/2004.

+/- 6 Mid-Shore Patrol-Boats
2 Toralla (P-80)
(Toralla, Formentor), 28 meters, 130 tons. Commissioned by 1987/1989.

4 Anaga (P-20)
(Tagomago, Grosa, Medas, Tabarca), 44 meters, 310+ tons. Commissioned by 1981.

+/- 2 Inshore Patrol-Boats
1 P-114
(P-114), 13 meters, 20 tons, built by 1979.

1 Fradera
(Fradera), 17 meters, 28 tons, built by 1963.

+/- 3 Large Amphibious
1 Juan Carlos I (LHD)
(Juan Carlos I), 27 000 tons, 230 meters LHD design. Commissioned by 2010, with probable +/- 30 year of service, to be retired around 2040.

2 Galicia (LPD)
(Galicia, Castilla), 13 000 tons, 166 meters LPD design (designed in collaboration with Dutch). Commissioned by 1998/2000, with probable +/- 30 year of service, to be retired around 2030.

1 Hernan Cortes (LST)

(Pizarro), Ex-US LST of the Newport class, built by early 1970’s, transferred to spain by 1994. Likely to be retired by early 2010's.

Small/Medium Amphibious Crafts:
14 LCM
14 LCM (601 to 614, 2 prototypes included), 23 meters, 55/115 tons, built by 2001-2004

+/- 7 Mine-warfare
1 Diana (MCM Command ship)
(Diana), a modified Descubierta corvette, 88 meters, 1500 tons. Modified by 2000, now ageing ship, likely to be retired without direct replacement during 2010's.

6 Segura (M-30), Mine-hunters
(Segura, Sella, Tambre, Turia, Duero, Tajo), 54 meters, 550+ tons. Commissioned by 1999/2005, to be retired around 2025/2035.

+/- 3 Fleet-Oilers/Replenishment Ships:
1 Marques de la Ensenada
(Marques de la Ensenada), 13 000 tons, 126 meters. Commissioned by 1991, likely to remain in service until late 2010's.

1 Patino
(Patino), 17 000 tons, 170 meters, built by 1995, to remain in service at least until mid 2020's.

1 Cantabria
(Cantabria), a enlarged/improved “Patino” design, 19 000 tons, 174 meters, Commissioned by 2010, to remain in service at least until mid 2030's.

1 Training Ship (sailing ship)
1 Juan Sebastian Elcano
(Juan Sebastian Elcano), 113 meters, 3500 tons, built by 1928.

+/- 7 Others Auxiliary ships (Ro-Ro/Transport):
1 Contramaestre Casado
(Contramaestre Casado), acquired by 1982, ex-sweden ship, built by 1953

1 Martin Posadillo
In commission by 2000.

1 El-Camino Espanol
1999, Brazilian built by 1999

2 Alerta
(Alerta, intelligence-ship, Ex-german ship; Mar-Caribe, Former civilian-Tug), 76 meters, 220 tons, built during 1980's and transfered/acquired by 1992.

1 Salvage & Rescue Ship
1 Neptuno
(Neptuno), 57 meters, 1800 tons, built by 1975, acquired by 1988.

+/- 8 Oceanographic/Hydrographic/Survey-Ships:
1 Esperides

(Esperides), 82 meters, 2800 tons, commissioned by 1991.

1 Las-Palmas

(Las-Palmas), 42 meters, 1500 tons, built by 1978, acquired by the Spanish Navy in 1982.

4 Malaspina

(Malaspina, Tofino, Antarès, Rigel), 38 meters, 360 tons, commissioned by 1974/1975, to be retired during 2010's).

2 LHT'S (small-crafts)
(A 91/92)

2 Fleet Tugs:
2 Mahon
(Mahon, La Grana), 41 meters, 1500 tons, built by 1977/1981.

Naval Aviation:
Aircrafts:
- 16 AV-8 Harrier
- 3 CE-550 Citation II (Transports/Utility)
- 7 P-3B Orion (Maritime-Patrol/ASW)

Helicopters
- +/- 23 ASW helico (11 SH-3 Sea-King ; 12 SH-60B Seahawk)
- 19 Utility helico (9 HU-18 Bell 212; 10 Hughes 500)

Spanish Marines (+/- 5000)
Tanks: 16 M-60A3TTS
Armored-Vehicles: 18 Piranha
Amphibious Armored Vehicles: 19 AAV-7
Artillery: 6 M-109A2 (155mm); 12 M-56 pack (105mm)
Others: Some ATM (Tow-2), Some 90mm recoiless-riffle, Some Manpad (Mistral).

Coast-Guards (Guardia Civil Del Mar) +/- 760 personnals
+/- 32 In-shore/Mid-Shore Patrol Boats
Various size (11,9 meters; 17,4 meters; 22 meters; 24 meters).

The Spanish Navy is currently experiencing a significant modernization of its fleet (helped by the development of its shipbuilding industry = aka . Navantia). This upgrade allows it to hold a place among European navies.

Next fleet review/editorial: Future of the Brazilian Navy.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the Australian Navy

She will face (and deal with) an arms race in Asia...

Cartography :
Of the entire Australia land aera, only 1% were of water (rivers/lakes).
Coastlines: The Australian mainland has a total coastline length of 35,876 km (22,292 mi) with an additional 23,859 km (14,825 mi) of island coastlines. There are 758 estuaries around the country and claims an extensive EEZ zone of 8,148,250 square kilometres (3,146,060 sq mi).

Personnal Strenght :
Personnal: +/- 12 000 (and 1800+ reserve); Naval-Aviation: +/- 900.

12 Destroyers/Frigates (Fewers and Biggers !)
Up to 3 AAW Destroyers (3 Hobart)
(Hobart, Brisbane, Sydney). 7000 tons, 146 meters, AAW large frigate (derived from the Spanish F-100 design). Currently under building process, construction of first ship experienced some problems due to Australian shipyards skills shortcoming, a fourth ship in option now unlikely. All three expected to be commissioned by 2014/2018 (and replace directly in the Aussie Fleet the four ageing FFG of the Adelaide class), with probable +/- 30 years of service, to be retired around mid 2040’s decade.

Up to 8 Future FFX
Expected to replace the Anzac’s frigates during the 2020’s. A displacement of 7000 tons and cruise-missiles capable was hoped...Wait & See...

8 Anzacs
(Anzac, Arunta, Warramunga, Stuart, Parramatta, Ballarat, Toowoomba, Perth). 3600 tons, 118 meters multi-purpose frigate (modified German MEKO 200 design). Commissioned by 1996-2006, with probably +/- 30 years of service expected, to be retired by late 2020’s/early 2030’s.

4 Adelaide
(Sydney, Darwin, Melbourne, Newcastle). 4000 tons, 139 meters, ASW oriented frigate (of US O.H.Perry design). Commissioned by 1983/1993. These remaining four ships were expected to be replaced around 2014/2018 by 3 AAW frigates of the Hobart class.

Large Amphibious ships (a total renewal for the largest ships)
Up to 2 large LHD (2 Canberra)
(Canberra, Adelaide). 27 000 tons, 230 meters LHD of Spanish design. Currently on building process. To be commissioned by 2014/2015, with probable +/- 30 years of service, to be retired around mid 2040’s.

2 Kanimbla (large LST, to be retired soon)
(Kanimbla, Manoora), 8000+ tons, 159 meters LST (Ex-US ship built by late 1960’s/early 1970’s). Transferred by 1994, now ageing and unreliable ships. To be retired very soon by 2012/2014 and replaced by the 2 Canberra LHD

Up to 1 Ex-Largs Bay (LPD)
(Ex-Largs Bay) 16000 tons, 176 meters LPD (Ex-British HMS Largs-Bay, initially commissioned by 2006), likely to be transferred (65 £ million) by late 2011/early 2012. With probable +/- 25+ year of service, to be retired around 2030.

1 Tobruk (medium LST, to be retired soon)
(Tobruk), 3600/5800 tons, 126+ meters LST (derived from the 1960’s UK design). Commissioned by 1981. Now ageing ship, to be retired very soon and replaced early 2012 by the “second-hands” (but very young, larger and more capable ship) Ex-British HMS Largs-Bay.

Others Amphibious Crafts (LCT/LCM)
6 Balikpapan
(Balikpapan, Brunei, Labuan, Tarakan, Wewak, Betano), 300/500 tons, 44 meters LCT design. Commissioned by 1973/1974 4 LCVP (T-4/7), 5+ tons, 13+ meters, carried on Tobruk LST and Success AOE. Built by 1993.

6 LCM
Originaly intended to replace ageing LCM 8, but this design suffered from major problems (Fragility, crafts not reached fundamental requirement). Likely to be scrapped without reach frontline service

14 LCM (Mk-8)
34 tons, 22 meters, built by 1967. Many already retired Mineweespers and Patrol-Ships.

+/- 26 OPV, IPV, MCM (Biggers and Fewer....)
Up to 20 Ocean Patrols Vessles (Project SEA 1180) ?
Up to twenty OPV of +/- 2000 tons expected (hoped...) around 2018-2030 to replace 26 ships of the Huon MCM (6), Armidale MPV (14), Leeuwin SV (2), Paluma SV (4) class

6 Mineweespers
6 Huon (Huon, Hawkesbury, Norman, Gascoyne, Diamantina,Yarra). 700+ tons, 52 meters (a design variant from the Italian Gaeta MCM design). Commissioned by 1999/2003, likely to be retired around 2030.

2 Auxiliary Mineweespers/tugs
(Bandicoot, Wallaroo), 500+ tons, 29 meters, Ex-civilian ships, transferred by 1990 1 Bermagui (Bermagui), 110 tons, 19+ meters, Ex-fishing boat transferred by 1994.

1 Koraaga
(Koraaga), 120 tons, 21+ meters, Ex-Tuna boat transferred by 1989

3 mine-coutermesures drones
(MSD 02/04)

14 Armidale (Mid-shore patrol vessels)
(Armidale, Larrakia, Bathurst, Albany, Pirie, Maitland, Ararat, Broome, Bundaberg, Wollongong, Childers, Launceston, Maryborough, Gleneg). 270 tons, 56 meters IPV design. Commissioned by 2005/2008, with probable +/- 20 years of service expected.

2 Leeuwin (Mid-shore Patrols Vessels)
(Leeuwin, Melville), 2500 tons, 71 meters. Commissioned by 2000.

4 Paluma (Mid-shore Patrols Vessels)
(Paluma, Mermaid, Shepparton, Benalla), 300+ tons, 36 meters. Commissioned by 1989/1990.

6 Submarines (toward up to 12 ?, a unrealistic future requirement !!!)
Up to 12 newer Subs ?
(project SEA 100), maybe 2500/3000+ tons SSK design, intended to replace the Collins class by 2025+, but the current figure expected (12 ships) seems too unrealistic (.....up to 8 max)...WAIT & SEE

6 Collins
(Collins, Farncomb, Waller, Dechaineux, Sheean, Rankin), 3000 tons, 77 meters SSK of Swedish design (Type 471). Well effective subs but this class have been subject of numbers of incidents/technical problems from the beginning. Commissioned by 1996/2003, with probable +/- 30 years of life, to be retired by late 2020’s.

2 Fleet Oilers
1 Sirius
(Sirius), 25 000 tons, 191 meters, ex-civilian ship converted. Commissioned by 2006.

1 Succes
(Succes), 17 000 tons, 157 meters (design derived from French “Durance” AOE). Commissioned by 1986

+/- 17 Patrol Boats
8 Roebuck Bay patrol boats
(Roebuck Bay, Holdfast Bay, Botany Bay, Hervey Bay, Corio Bay, Storm Bay, Dame Roma Mitchell, Arnhem Bay), 28 tons, 38 meters, built by 1998/2000

1 Southerly 65
(Malu Baizam), 85 tons, 19+ meters, built 2003.

8 Fantome class
(SMB-1105/1012), 7+ tons, 10+ meters, built by 1992/1993.

5 Auxiliary Ships
1 Antartic survey ship
(Wyatt Earp), 5+ tons, 9+ meters.

1 Training ship (sail)
1 Young Endeavour 200 tons, 44 meters, built by 1987

2 Large Tenders
(Seahorse Spirit, Seahorse Standard), 3900+ tons, 72+ meters, built by 1980/1981

1 Navigational training ship
Seahorse Horizon, 390+ tons, 42 meters, transferred by 1990

Dozens of Harbors Small Crafts
+/- Twenty 30/60 tons lighters
18+ meters

3 Southerly 65 class
(Seal, Shark, Dugong), 85 tons, 20 meters, built by 1993/1999.

Few concrete ammunition lighters.

10 Steber 43
(NGPWB-01/10), 13+ tons, 13+ meters, built by 1998

4 Noosacat 930
(0901/0904), 9+ meters, built by 1994

4 Shark Cat 800
8+ meters, built during 1980’s

12 Naval Work Boats
12+ tons, 12+ meters, built by 1979/1981

A half-dozens of radio-controlled surface target

4 Waters/fuel lighters
(Wallaby, Wombat, Warrigal, Wyulda), 260 tons, 39 meters, built by 1983/1984

Maybe few torpedo-recovery crafts
(Tuna, Trevally, Tailor), 93 tons, 26+ meters, built by 1970/1971

Some very small training yachts and dinghies ?

1 ASI-315 class navigation craft
(Seahorse Mercator), 165 tons, 31 meters, built 1998

4 Tugs
1 Tammar
260 tons, 27 meters, built 1984

2 Coastal
(Seahorse Quenda, Seahorse Chuditch), 23 meters, built 2003

1 Quokka
110 tons,18+ meters, built 1983

(2nd) Comandos (Naval Troops):
12 LARC-V Amphibious vehicles.
Up to 27 RHIB of the 7,2 meters type (N° 0701/0727).

Naval Aviation:
Helicopters:
- 15 S-70B Seahawk
- 4 Sea-King Mk4
- Up to 6 MRH-90
- 6 AS-350 Ecureuil
- 3 A-109 Augusta

The Australian navy, like many Western navies, undergoes the (in)famous rule "fewer and bigger. " But the arms race in Asia pushes Australia toward some naval ambitions (up to 12 future submarines, a fourth AAW DDG...). But many problems:
- limited budgets
- problems in Australian shipyards
- problem of recruitment and reputation in the RAN...

Most likely will reduce and slow down these ambitions...

Next fleet review/editorial: Future of the Spanish Navy.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Furure of the Argentinian Navy

A lack of financial means always crying...

Cartography:
Of the entire Argentinian land aera, 1% (30,200 km2 (11,700 sq mi)) were of water (lakes/rivers).
Coastlines: 4,665 km (2,899 mi) in Atlantic coast; Argentine Sea has a surface of 386,102 sq. mi. (1,000,000 km²).

Personnal Strenght:
+/- 15000 sailors, (+/- 2000 naval aviation included), some conscripts + 2500 naval marines .

1 Command Ship (LCC)
1 Hecules
(Hércules), formerly a Type 42 AAW destroyer (commissioned by 1976), reconverted to fast Marine transport and command vessel by 1999/2000. Very likely to be retired during 2010’s without direct replacement.

4 Frigates
4 Almirante Brown
(Almirante Brown, La Argentina, Heroína, Sarandí), 3300 tons, 126 meters, highly modular warships in their time (1980’s). Commissioned by 1983/1984, now progressively ageing units (with probable +/- 30 years of life). Probably obsolete by late 2010’s and replaced by ???

3 Submarine
2 TR-1700
(Santa Cruz, San Juan), 1700/2100+ tons, 66 meters, highly effective SSK subs during the 1980’s. Commissioned by 1984/1985, now ageing units. Likely to be retired (and replaced ?) by late 2010’s ?.
2 furthers units were laid-up unfinished (Santa-Fe at 52/70 % and Santiago Del Estero at 30%). The Argentine Navy is perhaps planning to complete the “Santa-Fe” (the most advanced of the two hull), or even modify and convert it into nuclear submarine!. But the cost of such work, its (relative) small size and more especially the age of the uncompleted hull are, in all cases, this project seems doubtful. It would be better to scrap both hulls…

1 Type 209
(Salta), 1100/1800 tons, 64 meters, commissioned by 1974. Maybe to be retired without direct replacement during the 2010’s ?

+/- 9 Corvettes
Up to 5 PAM
Derived from the Chilean OPV design (built by ASMAR). First two ships currently ordered, others planned (all expected to be commissioned by 2016...)

6 Espora (Meko 140A)
(Espora, Rosales, Spiro, Parker, Robinson, Gómez Roca), 1500/1800 tons, 91 meters. First batch of four commissioned by 1985/1990, second batch of two suffered from MAJOR delays and commissioned by 2001/2005. Highly effective corvettes during the 1980’s. Now ageing units, likely to be retired by late 2010’s/late 2020’s.

3 Drummond
(Drummond, Guerrico, Granville), 1100 tons, 70 meters ASW coastal corvette (derived from the French A69 design). Commissioned by 1978, now relatively worn out…

+/- 6 Patrol Vessels
2 Murature
(Murature, King), 900 tons, riverine patrol-ships, so ageing (1945 era) that these ships could be considered as a museum ship.

4 Baradero class
(Baradero, Barranqueras, Clorinda, Concepción del Uruguay), unreliable data ?

2 Fast Attack Craft
2 Intrépida
(Intrépida, Indómita), 260 tons, 53 meters TNC 45 FAC design. Commissioned by 1974…now ageing units...

1 Large Amphibious ship
1 Bahía San Blas
(Bahía San Blas), 10 000+ tons, 119 meters. Commissioned by 1978, likely to be retired by late 2010’s.

+/- 8 Small Amphibious crafts:
8 LCVP
(EDVP 30/37), 13 tons, 10+ meters US LCVP style crafts.

4 Supply/Transport ships
1 Durance class
(Patagonia), 17 000 tons, 157 meters, ex-french Durance class AOE ship. French built by 1976, transferred by 2000.

1 Ingeniero Julio Krause
(Ingeniero Julio Krause), 8000+ tons oiler, 111 meters. Ex-civilian ship (built 1981), transferred by 1993.

2 Costa Sur class
(Canal de Beagle, Cabo de Hornos), 7000/10000 tons, 119 meters, mix cargos/amphibious transports, built by 1978/1979.

+/- 14 Auxiliary Ships
1 Teniente Olivieri
(Teniente Olivieri), fleet tugs, 1600 tons, 56 meters, built by 1981.

2 "Ex-Abnaki" class
(Francisco de Gurruchaga, Suboficial Castillo), fleet tug, 1200/1700+ tons, 62 meters. Nearly a museum ship class (EX US “Abnaki” tugs class built by 1944/1945 !!!), transferred to argentinia by 1975/1993. Likely to be retired in a near future.

2 "Ex-USCG" ships
(Ciudad de Zárate, Ciudad de Rosario), 500+ tons, 47 meters, multi-purpose auxiliary ship. Ex-USCG ships built by 1964/1970, transferred to Argentina by 1999.

1 Alférez Sobral
(Alférez Sobral), coastal tug, 800+ tons, 43 meters. Nearly a museum ship (Ex US coastal tug built by 1944…), transferred to Argentina by 1975. Likely to be retired in a near future.

1 Punta Alta
(Punta Alta) , unreliable data ?

1 training (sail) Ship
(Libertad), 3700 tons, 103 meters, built by 1962.

1 Icebreaker
(Almirante Irizar), 14800 tons, 121 meters, commissioned by late 1978. Likely to remain in service until late 2010’s.

1 Oceanographic Ship
(Puerto Deseado), 2400 tons, 76 meters. Commissioned by late 1978. Likely to remain in service until late 2010’s.

2 Hydrographic Vessels
(Comodoro Rivadavia, Cormoran), 800+ tons, 52 meters. Commissioned by late 1974.

2 ocean fleet tugs
(Querandi, Tehuelche), 370 tons, 33 meters, built by 1978. Naval Infantry (

6 Patrol-Crafts:
4 Dabur class
(P-61/P-64), 31 tons, 19 meters, Israeli “Dabur” type crafts. Commissioned by 1978/1979.

2 82ft Point class
(P-65/66), 64 tons,25 meters, EX-US “Point class”, built by 1970 and transferred by 1980

Naval Aviation
Naval-Aircrafts :
- 3 Super-Etendard Maritime
- 7 Beechcraft Super-King:
- 5 S-2 Tracker;
- 6 P-3C Orion (2 or 3 airworthy)
- 10 T-34C-1 Mentor
- 2 Fokker F-28
- 1 Pilatus PC-6

Naval-Helicopters :
- 6 UH-1H (to be transferred to argentine land army)
- 4 AS-555 Fennec
- 2 S-61R ASW
- Up to 6 S-61 Sea-King

Argentine Coast-Guards:

5 Off-Shore Patrol Vessels
5 Halcon II
(Doctor Manuel Mantilla, Azopardo, Thompson, Prefecto-Fique, Prefecto-Derbes). 1000 tons, 67 meters, commissioned by 1982/1983.

2 Mid-Shore Patrol Vessels
2 Lynch class
(GC-21/22), 100 tons,27 meters, built by 1964/1967.

+/- 122 Inshore Patrol Vessels
1 Bazan 39 class
(GC-142), 14 tons, 11+ meters, built 1997.

18 Z-28
(GC-64 to GC-81), 81 tons.

8 Stan-Tender 2200
(GC-122,123,124,125,129,130,150,151), 55 tons, 23+ meters, built by 1979/1980.

3 Stan Tender 1750
(GC-118,119,133), 60 tons, 16 meters.

10 Damen Alucat 1050
(GC-137,138,139,143,144,145,146,147,148,149), 10 tons, 11+ meters, built by 1994/2000.

33 Damen Alucat 850
(GC-152 through CG-184), 9 tons, 9+ meters, built by 1995/2000

34 GC-48
(GC-48/61; GC-88/95; GC-102/114), 13 tons, 12+ meters, built by 1978/1986.

6 Cat 1100
(GC 120, 126, 131, 132, 141, SP 25).

3 Cat 1100
(GC-135, 136, 140)

6 RHIB
(SR-2901 through SR-2906; 21 ft), built by 2004/2005

Maybe a handful of very old crafts (1930’s/1950’s vintage) still in service + few others various harbors crafts.

Argentine Coast-Guard Naval-Aviation
Aircrafts:
- 5 C-212-300 Casa
- 2 PA-28 Piper Cherockee

Helicopters:
- 1 SA-330L Puma
- 4 AS-365N2 Dauphin 2
- 4 Scheizer 300

Argentine Marines (+/- 2500 troops)
Armored vehicles/AIFV: 12+ ERC-90F Sagaie
Armored vehicles: Some M1114 HMMWV, 6 Grenadier, 36 M-3 Panhard
Amphibious Armored Vehicles: 15 LARC-5, 10 LVTP-7
Artillery (towed, all 105mm): 6 M-101, 12 Model 56 Pack Howitzer
Recoiless Rifles: 30 M-1974 FMK-1 (105mm), 60 M-20 (89mm)
SAM: Few RBS-70 missiles, some 30 and 35mm AA guns

The Argentinean Navy is (partially) haunted by the "Falklands syndrome". After the audacious acquisition programs of the 1970-1979’s era, the Argentine navy known (following the 1982 defeat), twenty years of tight-budgets. Budget unfortunately further reduced by the severe 2001 crisis…But despite limited resources, it becomes likely that the 2010's decade should see the arrival of new acquisition programs (frigates/OPV/SSK). And this simply because some Argentinian ships reaches the age of retirement.

Next fleet review/editorial: Future of the Australian Navy.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then said it ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the German Navy

Fewer and Bigger !

Cartography:
Of the entire german land aera, 2,4% (7,798 km2 (3,011 sq mi)) were of water (rivers/lakes).
German EEZ: 4,500 km2 In the Baltic Sea and 28 600 km2 In the North Sea.

Personnal Strenght: +/- 24 000
+/- 20 000 regular and +/- 3500 Conscript

+/- 15 Destroyers/Frigates (toward only 11 but bigger ships):
Up to 4 F-125
7000+ tons, 149 meters, land-oriented large frigates, intended to replace the entire Bremen (type 122) class frigate. All four to be commissioned by 2015-2019. With probable +/- 30 years of service, to be retired around 2045/2050.

3 Sachsen (F-124)
(Sachsen, Hamburg, Hessen), 5600 tons, 143 meters AAW frigate design. Commissioned by 2003/2006. With probable +/- 30 years of service, to be retired around 2030/2036.

4 Brandenburg (F123)
(Brandenburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Bayern, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern). 4900 tons, 138 meters multi-purpose frigate design. Commissioned by 1994-1996. With probable +/- 30 years of service, to be retired around 2024/2026. Likely to be replaced by fewer but larger (and more capable) warships........maybe replaced by 2 to 4 improved MEKO D 500/600 design ???....Wait & See

8 Bremen (F122)
(Bremen, Niedersachen, Rheinland, Emden, Koln,Karlsruhe, Augsburg, Lubeck). 3600 tons, 130 meters frigates. Commissioned by 1982-1990. Now all expected to be retired during 2010’s and partially replaced by only four Type 125 frigates.

5 (+6 ?) Corvettes:
5 Braunschweig (K130)
(Braunschweig, Magdeburg, Erfurt, Oldenburg, Ludwigshafen am Rheim). 1800 tons, 89 meters corvette design. This design experienced some early problems (gearing systems & so…). Commissioned by 2008/2011.

Up to 6 K-131 ?
Maybe expected by 2018+-2025 ?, very likely 2 main designs under study :
- MEKO® "CSL" (Littorals Warfare): 108m, 2750 t, >40 kts, steel hull, composite superstructure.
- MEKO® "FUSION": 84 m, 1500 t, >40 kts, composite hull & superstructure.
Future of this program was uncertain...

10 Fast Attack Crafts:
10 Gepard class (Type 143A)
(Gepard, Puma, Hermelin, Nerz, Nobel, Frettchen, Dachs, Ozelot, Wiesel, Hyane). 390 tons, 57 meters FAC design. Commissioned by 1982/1984, with probable +/- 30 year of life expected, to be retired by 2012-2019 and replaced by fewer but larger K-131 corvettes ?

4 (+2) Submarines
Up to 6 U-31 (Type 212)
(U-31, U-32, U-33, U-34). Two others units (U-35, U-36) were currently on completion stage. 1400/1800 tons, 56+ meters SSK. All six commissioned by 2005/2012, with +/- 30 years of life, to be retired around 2035/2040.

+/- 19 Mine-Hunters
5 Ensdorf class (type 352)
(Ensdorf, Auerbach, Hameln, Pegnitz, Siegburg). 650 tons, 54+ meters. Commissioned by 1989-1991.

5 Kulmbach class (type 333)
(Kulmbach, Uberhem, Passau, Laboe, Herten). 635 tons, 54+ meters. Commissioned by 1989-1991.

9 Frankenthal class (type 332)
(Bad-Bevensen, Bad-Rappenau, Gromits, Datteln, Dilingen, Homburg, Sulzbach, Fulda, Weilheim). 650 tons, 54+ meters. Commissioned by 1993-1998.

These 19 MCM ships, commissioned by 1989/1998 (with probably +/- 30 years of service), must be replaced around 2018/2030 by fewer (10 to 12 ?) and bigger ships (very likely a newer MEKO 2000 tons flexible ship)

Up to 2 Joint Support Ships (aka LHD or LPD ?):
By 2025, up to 2 large flexible ships was expected, some options:
- JSS 400 (> 20 000 tons, 400 troops, but not large supply onboard).
- JSS 400+ (< 20 000 tons, 400 troops, and large supply onboard). - JSS 800 (< 27 000 tons, 800 troops, likely pure LHD/LHA design). The current MRD/MHD 150/MHD 200 were likely a initial design study. This program is +/- uncertain, wait & see...
Small Amphibious:
4 LCM
2 LCU (type 521)

2 (+1) Replenishment ships
2 (+1) Berlin class (Type 702)
(Berlin, Frankfurt am Main). A third ship (Bonn) was ordered. 20 000 tons, 173 meters. The first two were commissioned by 2001/2002. The third ships (with some improvement), was expected to be commissioned by 2013+.

+/- 10 Support-Ships
2 Rhon class (type 704A)
(Rhon, Spessart). 14 000+ tons, commissioned by 1977. With probable 30+ years of service, to be retired very soon, by early/mid 2010’s.

2 Walchensee class (type 703)
(Ammersee, Tegemsee). 2000+ tons, 74 meters coastal tanker. Commissioned by 1967. Now no longer in service.

6 Elbe class (type 404)
(Elbe, Mosel, Rhein, Werra, Main, Donau). 3500 tons, 100 meters. Commissioned by 1993-1994. With probable 30 years of service, to be retired around mid 2020’s.

3 Intelligence ships
3 Oste class (type 422)
(Oste, Oker, Alster ), 3200 tons, 83 meters. Commissioned by 1988/1989, likely to be retired by late 2010's/mid 2020's.

Tugs
2 Wangerooge (type 722)
(Wangerooge, Spiekeroog, Langeoog, Baltrum, Juist), 800 tons, 52 meters. Commissioned by 1968/1971. To be retired soon...

Naval aviation +/- 2000
Helicopters:
+/- 22 Sea-Lynx Mk 88
+/- 21 Sea-King Mk 41 (no longer in service)

Aircrafts:
8 P-3C Orion (Ex-Dutch)
2 Do-288 LM
6 Camcopter S-100 UAV in order

The German Navy, after an initial sharp reduction after the end of the Cold-War (1991-2000), is undergoing a further profound and deeply reduction of its forces. Newer Warships are fewer, but larger, for overseas deployements...

Next fleet review/editorial: Future of the Argentinian Navy.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller coast-guards ships), then said it ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the Dutch Navy

Always very advanced, but with a reduced fleet...

Cartography:
Of the entire Dutch land aera, 18,41% (7,643 km2 (2,951 sq mi)) were of waters.
Coastline: 451 km (280 mi), and a EEZ aera of 68,783 km2 In the Dutch Antilles.

Personnal Strenght: +/- 10 000
+/- 7 000 sailors; +/- 2500 marines; +/- 800 naval aviation

4 AAW Destroyers
4 De Zeven Provinciën
(De Zeven Provinciën, Tromp, De Ruyter, Evertsen). 6000 tons, 144 meters highly effective AAW frigate. Commissioned by 2002-2005. Currently expected to be fully modernized (TBMD capable ship). With probable 30+ years of life expected, to be retired around 2032-2040.

2 Frigates
2 Karel Doorman class
(Van Speijk, Van Amstel), 3000 tons, 122 meters multi-purpose frigate. Well designed during the 1980’s. Currently under heavy upgrade (newer sensors/mast) to remain in service until 2020-2025.

Up to 4 Ocean Patrol Vessels
4 Holland
(Holland, Zeeland, Friesland, Groningen). 3000+ tons, 108 meters OPV design, with very advanced sensors/mast suit. To be commissioned by 2011/2012, with probable 25/30 years of service expected. To be retired around 2035/2040.

2 Large Amphibious assault ships
1 Rotterdam
(Rotterdam). 12000+ tons, 166 meters LPD designed in collaboration with Spain. Commissioned by 1998. With probable 25+ years of service expected, to be retired around mid 2020’s.

1 Johan de Witt
(Johan de Witt). 16800 tons, 176 meters, enlarged Rotterdam LPD design. Commissioned by 2007, with probable 25/30 years of life expected, to be retired around 2030/2035+.

Nota:
The future JSS will have some amphibious capabilities .

3 Submarines
3 Walrus class
(Walrus, Zeeleeuw, Dolfijn), 1900/2300 tons, 67 meters SSK. A fourth SSK (Bruinvis) were in reserve. Designed by late 1970’s/mid 1980’s (after some requirement modification). Commissioned by 1992/1994. With a probable 30+ years of life. Currently some upgrades (sensors/sonars) were planned. To be retired probably around 2025-2030. Their replacement is “uncertain”

10 Mine-Hunters
10 Alkmaar class
(Haarlem, Maasluis, Makkum, Middelburg, Hellevoetsluis, Schiedam, Urk, Zierikzee, Vlaardingen, Willemstad). 600 tons, 53 meters Tripartite Mine-hunters. All commissioned by 1982/1989. 3 to be converted to control vessels for mine-sweep drones. All to be retired by mid 2010's/mid 2020's and replaced by fewer, bigger and more versatile ships.

2 Replenishment Ships
Up to 1 Zuiderkruis JSS
28 000 tons, 204 meters, newer highly advanced flexible ships (fleet tanker/cargo/amphibious/command ship). Currently under construction, to be completed by 2014.

1 Zuiderkruis class
(Zuiderkruis), 17 000 tons, 170 meters fleet tankers. Commissioned by 1975. To be retired by 2012-2014 and replaced by a newer JSS flexible ships

1 Amsterdam class
(Amsterdam), 17 000 tons, 166 meters fleet tankers. Commissioned by 1995

5 Others supports ships
4 Cerberus class (diving support)
(Cerberus, Argus, Nautilus, Hydra)

1 Mercuur class (Torpedo recovery)
(Mercuur)

2 Hydrographical survey ships
2 Snellius class (hydrographical survey)
(Snellius, Luymes)

2 Training ships
1 Van Kinsbergen class
(Van Kinsbergen)

1 Urania class (sailing)
(Urania)

27 Medium/Small Landing crafts
5 L9525 LCU Mk2
(L9525, L9526, L9527, L9528, L9529) All crafts of these class have been upgraded. This upgrade meant enlarging the vessels and increasing their payload (enabling the craft to transport the Royal Netherlands Army's Leopard 2 A6).

12 LCVP Mk5c
Built by Visser Shipyard in Den Heler in 2009-2010

4 LCVP Mk3
(L9537, L9538, L9540, L9541). 2 others (L 9536, 9539 were retired by January 2010)

6 LCVP Mk2
(L9530, L9531, L9532, L9533, L9534, L9535)

18 Tugs and others harbor ships
5 Linge class large tugs.
(Linge, Regge, Hunze, Rotte, Gouwe)

2 Breezand class harbor tugs
(Breezand, Bergzand)

5 Schelde class harbor working boats
(Schelde, Wierbalg, Malzwin, Zuidwal, Westwal)

1 Patria class inshore tanker
(Patia)

1 Nieuwediep class touring boat
(Nieuwediep)

2 harbor vessels
(Y8200, Y8300)

1 Jonge Jan class harbor vessel
(Jonge Jan)

1 Jonge Prins class harbor vessel
(Jonge Prins)

Small crafts
29 Fast Raiding, Interception and Special Forces Craft
(11 for Special Operation use, 12 for use in the Dutch territories in the Caribbean and 6 to use in combination with the new Holland Class OPV's).

17 Fast raiding, Interception and special forces craft
(for use as small landing crafts).

Dutch Squadron for the Netherlands Antilles
1 Pelikaan logistic support vessel (amphibious & diving operations and transport), 1100+ tons, 65 meters, commissioned by 2006

3 patrol cutters
(Jaguar, Panter, Poema)

Naval helicopters (+/- 900 personnals)
10 SH-14 D Lynx still operationnal due to life prolonging maintenance (21-24 initially delivered by late 1970's-late 1980's).

Up to 12 NH-90 NFH
Expected to replace all ageing Lynx helico. All operationnal by 2015.

Dutch Marine Corps (+/- 3000 troops)
Armored vehicles
156 BV206S (127 will get a Mid-Life Update, the rest will be disposed of or sold).
74 BVS10.
20 XA-188 (11 to be sold to Estonia, the rest will be disposed of or sold).
4 Leopard 1 BARV beach armored recovery vehicles.

Unarmored vehicles
Land Rover Defender
40 Mercedes-Benz 280 CDI
17 Unimog 1.2-ton truck
Various DAF trucks

Artillery (Mortars)
60mm (Brandt MO-60-V); 81mm (L16A2); 120mm (RT-120).

The Dutch Fleet now has a reduced size. This allows to have a maximum of 1 or 2 large warships (Destroyers/Frigates/OPV) constantly in overseas ops (a NATO requirement ?). But this size corresponds to the importance of this country in this world.

Next fleet review/editorial: Future of the German Navy.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?), then said it ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the Swedish Navy

Initially intended to coastal defense, but things will change...

Majors Thanks to "Per-Nordenberg" for his BIG help :)

Cartography
Coastlines:
3218 km (2000 mi); Of the entire Swedish land aera, 39,960 km² (8.69%), were of Water (95 700+ lakes/rivers).

Personnal Strength (max):
Navy: 4,280; Naval brigade: 1,300

5 Submarines (+ 2 planned) :
2 A-26
1900 tons, in advanced stage of planning, to be delivered 2018-19 and replace the two Södermanland boats.

3 Gotland A-19
(Gotland, Halland, Uppland), commissioned 1999, 60,6 meters, Stirling AIP, Gotland to be decommissioned in the near future (and sold to Singapore?), Halland and Uppland to go through a mid-life modernization 2010-12, to be retired 2035 (and replaced by a further two A-26 boats?).

2 Södermanland modified A-17
(Södermanland, Östergötland), commissioned 1989-90, completely rebuilt and lengthened with Stirling AIP module 2003-04, to be retired 2018-19 and replaced by the two A-26 boats, might be sold to Singapore (RSN already have two near sisters).

6 (3 being completed, + 2 planned, + 2 in reserve) corvettes:
2 K40
1500-2800 tons, to be delivered mid 2020's and replace the two modernized Göteborg corvettes.

2 (+3 on trials) Visby
(Helsingborg, Härnösand), 640 tons, 73 meters, commissioned in 2010 in version 4 without missiles or torpedoes, to be outfitted in final version 5 with SSM and torpedoes 2012-13. (Visby, Nyköping, Karlstad), 640 tons, 73 meters, to be commissioned in version 5 with SSM and torpedoes 2012-13.

2 (+2 reserve) Göteborg
(Gävle, Sundsvall), 400 tons, 57 meters, commissioned 1991 and 1993, planned go through a mid-life modernization with somewhat reduced ambition in 2012-13, to be retired mid 2020's.[(Göteborg, Kalmar), 400 tons, 57 meters, commissioned in 1990-91, decommissioned 2005-06 and laid up in reserve, planned to be converted to surveillance boats without SSM and torpedoes to replace/complement an old surveillance boat and 12 Tapper coastal patrol boats mid 2010's.]

2 Stockholm
(Stockholm, Malmö), 380 tons, 50 meters, commissioned in 1985, completely rebuilt and modernized in 2000-02, to be retired mid 2010's.

1 Patrol ship:
1 Carlskrona
(Carlskrona), 3550 tons, 105,7 meters, commissioned 1982 as minelayer and midshipmen training ship, converted to command ship 2002-03, converted to patrol ship 2009-10, to be converted to support ship, to be retired 2018.

1 Surveillance boat:
1 Jägaren (Jägaren)
150 tons, 36,5 meters, commissioned 1972, originally built as prototype for the Hugin class fast patrol boats, converted to surveillance boat 1988 with reduced armament, sensors, machinery and crew, to be retired mid 2010's.

12 Coastal patrol boats:
12 Tapper
(Tapper, Djärv, Dristig, Händig, Trygg, Modig, Hurtig, Rapp, Stolt, Ärlig, Munter, Orädd), 60 tons, 22 meters, commissioned 1993-99, equipped with ASW sensors and weapons, to be retired 2018-2024?

3 Coastal minelayers:
1 Furusund
(Furusund), 240 tons, 30 meters, commissioned 1983, modified and mainly used as diving and salvage vessel, to be retired mid or late 2010's?.

2 MUL 12 type
(Grundsund, Fårösund), 245 tons, 31 meters, commissioned 1952-56, Grundsund belong to Naval Brigade, to be retired mid 2010's?

7 Minehunters/sweepers:
5 Koster
(Koster, Kullen, Vinga, Ven, Ulvön), 360 tons, 47,5 meters, commissioned in 1986-92, mid-life modernization in 2008-10, to be retired 2028-30.

2 Styrsö
(Styrsö, Skaftö), 200 tons, 36 meters, commissioned in 1996-97, were to go through a mid-life modernization but will now be phased out.

2 Mine clearence diver support ships:
2 Spårö
(Spårö, Sturkö), 205 tons, 36 meters, commissioned in 1996-97, rebuilt as mine clearence divers support ships in 2004-05 while retaining minehunting capability, to be retired 2020-21?

1 Drone minesweeper:
1 MRD-STOR
(Sökaren), 129 tons, 26 meters, commissioned in 2001, used for trials.

5 Drone mine countermeasures craft:
5 SAM 01
(SAM 01, SAM 02, SAM 03, SAM 04, SAM 05), 20 tons, 18 meters, commissioned in 1983 (SAM 01-02, 04) and 1992 (SAM 03 and 05), radio-controlled drones.

1 Mine warfare tender:
1 Ägir
(Ägir), 240 tons, 24,5 meters, commissioned 1984.

1 Intelligence collection ship:
1 Orion
(Orion), 1400 tons, 61,3 meters, commissioned in 1984, limited life extension 2010 for another 5-6 years.

2 (1 planned + 1 in reserve) support ships:
1 L 10 planned
13000 - 15000 tons, 145 - 160 meters, with limited amphibious and helicopter capability, to replace Trossö mid 2010's.[(Visborg). 2590 tons, 92 meters, commissioned as minelayer in 1976, converted to support ship 1998, decommissioned 2010, possibly to be sold to Chile.]

1 support tender:
1 Trossö
(Trossö), 2554 tons, 74,5 meters, commissioned 1988 as a Soviet oceanographic ship, bought from Estonia and converted to support tender 1997, to be replaced by L 10 mid 2010's.

1 Submarine rescue and salvage ship:
1 Belos
(Belos), 5600 tons, 105 meters, commissioned in 1985 as an oilfield supply and diver support vessel, bought 1992 and converted.

2 sonobuoy monitoring boats:
2 Ejdern
(Ejdern, Krickan), 36 tons, 19 meters, commissioned in 1991 and decommissioned in 2004 (together with two sisters), apparently recommissioned since.

7 training ships:

2 Gladan
(Gladan, Falken), 225 tons, 39 meters, sail-training schooners commissioned in 1947, used for training of cadets.

5 Altair
(Altair, Antares, Arcturus, Argo, Astrea), 85 tons, 26 meters, commissioned 2008-09, can be quickly converted for patrol or for sonobuoy monitoring, to be retired 2033-34.

~140 Combat boats:
~140 CB 90H
(803-907), 20,5 tons, 15,9 meters, commissioned 1991-97, belong to Naval Brigade, to start retire late 2010's?

Naval aviation:
Helicopters:
- Up to 5 NH 90 NFH ordered, to be delivered in 2014-15.
- 8 A-109 Agusta (can be temporarily based on the Visby corvettes)
(In addition some of the Air Force Super Pumas can be available for search and rescue)

The Swedish navy, despite its small size and geographic location (Restricted and Shallow Baltic Sea), has always had high-tech ships and equipment.

Historically, the Navy was directed to a coastal fleet. But the next acquisition programs (heavy corvettes/ supply vessels) will begin to change that.

The "Future of the Russian Navy" (Part 1 & 2) is "keel laid down" and in "advanced building process" for months, but personnal problems prevent me continually to make this blog much more seriously/deeply.
Also note that despite my problems, I have many ideas to improve this blog. Facebook & Twitter "Combat-Fleets" accounts are already launched, but I lack time to feed them regularly !
Be Patient, thanks ;)