[1] The Friesland-class destroyers were an improved and larger derivative of the previous Holland-class, with more powerful machinery and heavier anti-aircraft armament.

Like the Hollands, they were specialised escort ships, intended to defend convoys and task forces against hostile submarines and air attack.

[3][4] Unusually for destroyer-type ships, the Frieslands were fitted with side and deck armour to protect against splinter damage from near-misses by bombs.

[5][4] The machinery was based on that of the American Gearing-class destroyers, with four Babcock & Wilcox boilers feeding two sets of geared steam turbines rated at 45,000 kW (60,000 shp) and driving two propeller shafts.

Anti-submarine armament consisted of two quadruple launchers for Bofors 375mm anti submarine rockets and two depth charge racks.

After the signing of the New York Agreement, Overijssel sailed the Sorong-Biak route several times and again to remove troops from the army.

[8] On 8 June 1977 Overijssel, with the frigate Tromp, the replenishment ship Poolster and destroyer Groningen, visited Leningrad.