The Holland class destroyers were built for the Royal Netherlands Navy in the 1950s. They were the first major ships designed and built by the Dutch after World War II. In contrast to previous Dutch Navy practice the ships were named after provinces rather than Admirals.

Design

These ships were unusual as they were the first destroyers built without large calibre anti-ship torpedoes. Their primary role was anti-sybmarine warfare and convoy defence. The armament comprised two twin Bofors 120mm guns which were capable of 45 rounds per minute. The mountings were automated and stabilsed with radar control. Anti submarine weaponry consisted of two Bofors anti submarine mortars.

The machinery was ordered before the war for the s and hidden during the German occupation. The turbines were built by Werkspoor and four boilers were used. The ships had a unit machinery lay out.

The superstructure was built of alluminum alloy in order to reduce weight and electric welding was used throughout.

The Netherlands navy considered replacing the after 120mm turret with a guided missile system in the late 1950's but this project was cancelled

Ships