The Tromp-class frigates entered service in 1975 and 1976 and served until 1999 and 2001. Both ships were built by Royal Schelde Shipyard in Flushing (Vlissingen). The ships served as fleetflagships and area air defence vessels. Their 3D radar under a large polyester radome gave the ships the nickname "Kojak" in the Netherlands Navy. Originally the ships were to have the British Sea Dart missile system, but this was changed to the more compact American Standardsurface-to-air missile.
The ships were replaced by the De Zeven Provinciën-class frigates. A total of four new frigates have been built, including two also named Tromp and De Ruyter.