Royal IHC secures contract for Orka-class submarine modules

Royal IHC has secured its first contract from Naval Group to support the development of the Orka-class submarine program for the Royal Netherlands Navy. The agreement focuses on the design of habitability modules, which will provide living, resting, and dining spaces for the crews of the four future conventional submarines.

Under the contract, Royal IHC will initially handle the design phase. In subsequent stages, the company is expected to participate in the production and installation of these modules. This collaboration is part of the Replacement Netherlands Submarine Capability (RNSC) program, which aims to replace the current Walrus-class submarines.

The project is being executed through Team Orka, an industrial network organized by Naval Group to integrate Dutch engineering, manufacturing, and maritime expertise into the program. While Naval Group maintains responsibility for the global design, construction, and final integration of the submarines, the partnership facilitates technical knowledge exchange between French and Dutch maritime industries.