Netherlands to Transfer Its Decommissioned Makkum Minesweeper to Ukraine

The Royal Netherlands Navy has officially decommissioned the Makkum (M857), a minesweeper of the Alkmaar class, which is now set to join the Ukrainian Naval Forces.

According to the Dutch Ministry of Defense, the Makkum served nearly 40 years, participating in numerous training exercises and clearing over 120 explosive devices, including in the North Sea.

The Netherlands previously announced its decision to transfer two Alkmaar-class minesweepers, Makkum (M857) and Vlaardingen (M863), to Ukraine. The Vlaardingen was retired in March 2024. Before their delivery, both ships will undergo technical maintenance. The transfer is expected in 2025, following the completion of crew training that began in the latter half of 2023.

The decommissioning of Alkmaar-class ships is part of the Netherlands' plan to modernize its naval capabilities. By 2030, the Alkmaar class will be replaced with six new Vlissingen-class vessels, developed under the European rMCM program. The lead ship of the Vlissingen class (M840) is slated to enter service by late 2025.

Alkmaar-Class minesweepers

The Alkmaar class was a collaborative project among Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, based on the French Circé design. Thirty-five ships were built during the 1980s and 1990s, with each country contributing specific components:

• France supplied mine-countermeasure systems and electronics.

• The Netherlands provided propulsion systems.

• Belgium contributed electrical power systems.

The Alkmaar-class minesweepers, initially designed with a standard displacement of 520 tons, were later upgraded to 630 tons. Dutch variants were stripped of planned 20mm guns, retaining only three 12.7mm machine guns.

The ships are equipped with advanced technology, including the Atlas Elektronik INCMS combat data system, Thales 2022 Mk III sonar, and Atlas Seafox and Double Eagle Mk III Mod 1 remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for mine detection and disposal.

In addition to their primary mission of mine clearance, the Alkmaar-class vessels can serve as logistical support ships, capable of transporting cargo and ammunition.