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Royal Netherlands Navy Unveils New Combat Support Ship Den Helder.
The Royal Netherlands Navy marked an achievement with the christening of its new Combat Support Ship (CSS), the future HNLMS Den Helder. The ceremony took place at Damen Naval’s shipyard in Vlissingen, the Netherlands, and was led by Princess of Orange Catharina-Amalia. This event also marked the first christening of a new naval vessel in the Netherlands since 2014.
The Royal Netherlands Navy marked an achievement with the christening of its new Combat Support Ship. (Picture source: Dutch MoD)
The project has reached this important stage exactly 48 months after the initial cutting of steel, highlighting the dedication and teamwork that went into its development. Damen Naval served as the primary contractor, overseeing the entire construction process as the national original equipment manufacturer.
Damen Naval Project Director Arjan Risseeuw expressed his satisfaction with the project’s progress, stating, “During the first sea trials, the ship has proven to be a valuable addition to the Netherlands naval fleet. Since the contract was signed in 2020 – and even earlier – all parties involved have worked with passion and commitment. It is truly special to see the ship in the spotlight, especially with so many of our project partners here for the christening.”
The next steps for Damen Naval include completing final works on the vessel before its handover to the Materiel & IT Command (COMMIT) of the Netherlands Ministry of Defence. The CSS Den Helder embarked on its journey to the Netherlands on November 16, 2024, and commenced its maiden sea trials in December 2024.
Designed for global deployment, the CSS Den Helder is equipped for a range of operations, including humanitarian missions and logistical support. It can sustain a task force of up to six vessels at sea, even under adverse weather conditions, with a capacity to carry over 8 million liters of fuel. In addition, the ship features a Role 2 medical facility, ensuring the ability to provide healthcare in operational environments. The vessel can accommodate a core crew of 76, with space for an additional 80 personnel.
Damen Naval Managing Director Roland Briene emphasized the importance of the day, stating, “This is a special day for Damen Naval. It is an honor to welcome the Princess of Orange to our shipyard. Her presence continues a long tradition of the Royal Family’s association with ships built for the Royal Netherlands Navy, designed and constructed by De Schelde, now part of Damen Naval.”
The completion of the CSS Den Helder is a key milestone in the ongoing modernization of the Netherlands naval fleet. It aligns with the objectives of the Maritime Manufacturing Industry Sector Agenda. Looking ahead, Damen Naval and the Ministry of Defence are focusing on various strategic programs, including the development of new anti-submarine warfare frigates, the replacement of air defence and command frigates, and the introduction of new amphibious transport ships.