The Royal Netherlands Navy's 'Hr.Ms. 'De Zeven Provinciën', the first LCF-frigate, has recently won the prestigious 'Ship of the year' award. This prize is given each year to the most innovative ship. The 'De Zeven Provinciën' has inclined external surfaces that reduce the chance of radar detection. In addition to the stealth design, the application by TNO and the RNLN of blast and shrapnel-resistant doors and covers was considered to be highly innovative. And last but certainly not least, the jury qualified the selection of Thales Nederland's multifunction radar APAR as 'revolutionary'. The  LCF design was nominated in the category 'Specials'. Director Materiel of the RNLN, Rear Admiral, P.M. van der Struis, considered this a correct classification. "Indeed, it is a special ship; more than that: it is unique. Many navies regard the LCF with admiration, sometimes even with envy. The design, construction and setting into operation of a ship as complex as the LCF, requires much time," explained Van der Struis. He emphasized that work is still in progress on the integration of hardware and software in the Combat Management Systeem and the Anti Air Warfare System, that constitute the "heart of the ship and determine its operational value".