A pantserschip can be described as a coast-defence battleship which could operate at sea.

Typical armament was two turrets each with a 9.4in (24 cm) cannon. It was used by the Dutch as of 1900 to provide artillery support in the Dutch colonies.

Due to its weak armor and weaponry it was outclassed by the Dreadnought class ship.

Some "pantserschepen" were:

• Hr.Ms. De Ruyter
• Hr.Ms. Hertog Hendrik
• Hr.Ms. Marten Harpertszoon Tromp
• Hr.Ms. Koningin Regentes
• Hr.Ms. Jacob van Heemskerck
• Hr.Ms. Kortenaer
• Hr.Ms. Zeven Provinciën
• Hr.Ms. Soerabaja

In 1933 a mutiny took place on Zeven Provinciën. The mutiny was ended by means of bombers. Later the ship was renamed Soerabaja.