The Royal Netherlands Navy's new combat support ship, HNLMS Den Helder (A834), has successfully completed its maiden voyage and sea trials. The nearly 180-meter-long vessel departed from the Damen Naval shipyard in Galați, Romania, on November 16 for its Sea Acceptance Tests (SATs) and has now arrived at Vlissingen for final outfitting. The ship is expected to be officially handed over to the Netherlands Ministry of Defence's Materiel & IT Command (COMMIT) by spring 2025.
HNLMS Den Helder, named after the Royal Netherlands Navy's main base, is positioned to play a significant role alongside the joint support ship HNLMS Karel Doorman. Designed to carry out missions worldwide and under high threat conditions, it is equipped to provide naval vessels with the necessary supplies including fuel, ammunition, food, and spare parts.
The new combat support ship is notable for its ability to operate under protection of frigates, ensuring safety during missions. It has ample carrying capacity, capable of supporting naval operations with provisions for 20 ISO containers, medical supplies, and transport capabilities for helicopters. The vessel can accommodate 75 crew members and another 75 personnel, making it adaptable for various missions.
Equipped with advanced replenishment technology, HNLMS Den Helder can replenish other navy ships at sea, facilitating training exercises and operational readiness. Prior to its arrival, the ship conducted replenishments at sea exercises with the patrol vessel HNLMS Friesland, demonstrating its operational capabilities before entering the final outfitting phase.
For the final outfitting, the combat management system will be installed, which is integral to the vessel's performance during joint operations. The ship will soon be outfitted with additional features, including a Role-2 medical facility, ensuring it is equipped to handle emergencies and medical evacuations as necessary.
With its advanced features, the HNLMS Den Helder holds cargo capacity comparable to its nearly identical sister ship, the HNLMS Karel Doorman. Onboard, the ship's fuel storage includes 7,600 cubic meters of diesel and 1,000 cubic meters of helicopter fuel. The new supply ship also includes room for 434 tonnes of assorted goods such as ammunition, along with 24 storage containers.
Even though it is still undergoing finishing touches, this supply ship is expected to be operationally effective even during challenging weather conditions, allowing it to support up to six ships simultaneously during missions. The delivery of HNLMS Den Helder marks a significant step forward for the Royal Netherlands Navy, enhancing its logistical support and operational readiness capabilities.
