MBT HrMs cruiser "De Ruyter" (1953) (formerly "De Zeven Provincien" (1939)) - Construction plan, scale 1:250 (10.11.007)

Hr.Ms. De Ruyter (1953)

Type: Light cruiser / armoured cruiser
Hull number: 1953 (commissioned)
Service: Royal Netherlands Navy
Class: De Ruyter class (light cruisers)

Background

HMS De Ruyter, built in 1953, was one of two light cruisers of the De Ruyter class, named after the famous Dutch admiral Michiel de Ruyter.

The ships of this class were built as modern warships for the Dutch Navy in the aftermath of the Second World War.

The cruiser was intended for tasks such as escorting large squadrons, patrolling and air defence.

Characteristics

Displacement: Around 6,000 to 6,500 tonnes (standard)

Length: Approximately 155 metres

Armament:

Main armament consisted of 6 × 152 mm guns (triple turrets)

In addition, anti-aircraft guns and torpedo tubes

Propulsion: Steam turbines, enabling a speed of approximately 32 knots

Crew: Approximately 450–500 personnel

Service and history

HMS De Ruyter (1953) was commissioned as the successor to the older cruisers.

She served during the Cold War period and was deployed for NATO escorts, maritime patrols and training exercises.

The cruiser was an important flagship in the Royal Netherlands Navy during the 1950s and 1960s.

She was later modernised to better respond to new threats, such as aircraft and submarines.

She was decommissioned in the 1970s.

Interesting facts

The name “De Ruyter” pays tribute to Michiel de Ruyter, one of the most famous admirals in Dutch history, known for his courage and tactical brilliance.

HMS De Ruyter had a sister cruiser: HMS De Zeven Provinciën.

These ships marked the transition from classic cruisers to more modern naval vessels with a broader focus on air defence and anti-submarine capabilities.

Specifications: