DSEI 2023: Belgium Navy displays patrol vessel BNS Castor.

At DSEI 2023 which takes place 12-15 September in London, the Belgian Navy showcased its Castor class patrol vessel, the BNS Castor.
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Belgian Castor class patrol vessel BNS Castor. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

In 2012, Belgium's Defence Minister, Pieter De Crem, unveiled naval plans with a €34 million budget earmarked for two Ready Duty Ships. By May, the government greenlit the proposal.

Both Damen Group and Socarenam showed interest in the project. While Damen pitched a version of their existing Stan Patrol vessel, it was Socarenam's more cost-effective offer (€26.6 million) that won in December 2012. The first vessel, Castor, was handed over to the navy in 2014, followed by Pollux in 2015.

Technical data

With a full load displacement of 455 tonnes and twin MTU diesel engines producing 2,880 kW each, the BNS Castor is designed for a variety of maritime tasks.

The vessel, measuring 53.50 m in length, with a beam of 9.50 m and a draught of 3.19 m, has a maximum speed of 21 knots. The BNS Castor is primarily engaged in surveillance missions, including pollution control, fishing surveillance, and detecting illicit trafficking.

Additionally, she serves as a support platform in Belgium's economic zone for control or rescue operations. The design of the vessel allows her to accommodate two RHIBs (Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boats).

While the main crew consists of members from the Belgium Navy, specialized personnel from other public services, such as the police and customs, are occasionally onboarded for specific administrative tasks.