Netherlands Christens Navy’s Modern Combat Support Ship

The Netherlands has officially named the navy’s new Combat Support Ship at Damen Naval Shipyard in Vlissingen.

The vessel is being developed to fill the gaps left by the force’s 1960s-era replenishment oiler ship that was sold to Peru following retirement in 2014.

Christening of the new platform, dubbed the “HNLMS Den Helder,” was led by Dutch Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia. It was attended by Netherlands Defense Secretary Gijs Tuinman, Damen Shipyards executives, and other representatives of the state.

After the event, the ship will receive final design processes at the site. It will then sail to Den Helder, North Holland, to undergo installation of its sensors, weapons, and other capabilities.

The system will also undergo more tests in addition to its initial assessments last year near its assembly center in Romania, particularly across the Danube River, the Black Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea.

The vessel’s crew has already finished operational, fire brigade, and maintenance training, parts of which were supported by virtual reality-based practical lessons.

“The christening of the [Combat Support Ship] marks the beginning of a large-scale fleet replacement and reinforcement programme for our Royal Netherlands Navy,” Damen Naval Managing Director Roland Briene remarked at the ceremony.

“It underscores our longstanding and strategic partnership with the Ministry of Defence, which is now focused on renewal and acceleration. Here in Vlissingen, the heart of Dutch naval shipbuilding, we are dedicating resources and capacity to this urgent fleet modernisation.”

For Domestic, Allied Support

The Den Helder will carry fuel, shells, tactical equipment, and goods for the armed forces operating in local and international theaters once inducted into service.

“The christening of the Combat Support Ship is a special moment—an important step following the successful completion of its sea trials,” Royal Netherlands Navy Commander Vice Admr. René Tas stated.

“This vessel will not only provide a crucial capability within the Netherlands naval fleet but also within NATO operations. Replenishment ships are indispensable for maritime operations, enabling other vessels to remain at sea for extended periods.”

New Naval Replenishment Asset

The HNLMS Den Helder measures 180 meters (590 feet) long and has space for up to 150 personnel, expeditionary vehicles, ISO-standard metal crates, and helicopters the size of NH90 rotorcraft.

The support ship’s armament includes a 76-millimeter naval gun with armor-piercing ammunition, Rolling Airframe Missiles, and 12.7-millimeter machine guns.

It will be fitted with four Wärtsila engines and twin General Electric Vernova electric motors for a maximum speed of 20 knots (37 kilometers/23 miles per hour).