The Netherlands has taken a significant step in modernizing its naval capabilities by officially naming the navy’s new Combat Support Ship at the Damen Naval Shipyard in Vlissingen. This latest vessel, designated “HNLMS Den Helder,” has been developed to replace the aging replenishment oiler ship that was decommissioned in 2014 after being sold to Peru.
The christening ceremony was presided over by Dutch Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia and graced with the presence of Netherlands Defence Secretary Gijs Tuinman, executives from Damen Shipyards, and various state representatives. Following the naming ceremony, the ship will undergo its final design processes at the shipyard before being relocated to Den Helder, North Holland. Once there, it will be outfitted with essential sensors, weapons, and other operational capabilities.
The HNLMS Den Helder is set to undergo additional testing following preliminary assessments conducted last year in the vicinity of its assembly site in Romania, including trials on the Danube River, the Black Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea. Preparations for operational readiness have already been initiated, with the vessel’s crew completing training programs on operations, firefighting, and maintenance. A notable aspect of this training has been the incorporation of virtual reality-based lessons, enhancing the learning experience.
Damen Naval Managing Director Roland Briene highlighted the christening of the HNLMS Den Helder as a pivotal moment that marks the commencement of an extensive fleet replacement and reinforcement program for the Royal Netherlands Navy. He underscored the importance of the strategic partnership between Damen and the Ministry of Defence, which focuses on advancing and modernizing the fleet. Briene expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts with various Dutch companies and research institutes to support this modernization initiative, emphasizing Damen’s 150 years of commitment to the naval shipbuilding sector.
Once operational, the HNLMS Den Helder will serve a critical role in supporting both domestic and allied operations. It will be equipped to transport fuel, ammunition, tactical equipment, and supplies for armed forces engaged in both national and international missions.
Royal Netherlands Navy Commander Vice Admiral René Tas emphasized the importance of the Combat Support Ship during the christening, stating that it signifies a key capability for the naval fleet and NATO operations as a whole. He noted that replenishment ships are essential for extending mission durations at sea, allowing other vessels to remain operational for longer periods.
Measuring 180 meters (590 feet) in length, the HNLMS Den Helder is designed to accommodate up to 150 personnel, along with expeditionary vehicles, ISO-standard metal crates, and helicopters such as the NH90 rotorcraft. Its armament includes a 76-millimeter naval gun armed with armor-piercing ammunition, Rolling Airframe Missiles, and 12.7-millimeter machine guns. The ship will be powered by four Wärtsila engines paired with twin General Electric Vernova electric motors, enabling a maximum speed of 20 knots (37 kilometers/23 miles per hour).
With the christening of the HNLMS Den Helder, the Royal Netherlands Navy is poised to enhance its operational capabilities and extend its reach in maritime operations, reaffirming its commitment to effective defense strategies within NATO and beyond.
