HNLMS Den Helder: The New Combat Support Ship Unveiled
The Royal Netherlands Navy proudly introduced the HNLMS Den Helder, its latest combat support ship, during a significant handover ceremony in North Holland. This milestone marks the successful conclusion of a five-year journey in the ship’s construction, highlighting the advanced capabilities it will bring to the fleet. Designed for weapon systems integration, the Den Helder is set to play a crucial role in logistics and support for both Dutch forces and NATO partners.
In its operational capacity, the Den Helder will be responsible for the transport and supply of vital resources including fuel, ammunition, water, food, and other essential goods. Its primary function will be to facilitate the seamless movement of these supplies between the shore and naval assets, ensuring that operational readiness is maintained across various missions.
Construction and Sea Trials: Journey of the Den Helder
Assembly of the HNLMS Den Helder was completed in Galați, Romania, following which it embarked on an important journey back to the Netherlands. Launching in November 2024, the ship embarked on concurrent sea trials, which are essential for validating its operational capacities in real-life conditions. After arriving in Vlissingen, Zeeland, in December 2024, the ship underwent final adjustments and thorough testing before its official commissioning.
The Den Helder’s significance was further underscored in February 2025, when Dutch Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia officially named the ship. This ceremony symbolized its readiness to take over from the aging oiler platform that had served the navy since the 1960s and was retired and sold to Peru in 2014. The Den Helder is now prepared to commence its vital operations from its North Holland home port.
Dimensions and Capabilities
Measuring an impressive 180 meters (590 feet) in length, the HNLMS Den Helder is designed to accommodate around 150 crew members as well as a capacity for up to 20 ISO-standard metal cargo containers. This versatile design allows the ship to adapt to various mission profiles, including the capability to transport landing craft vehicles or even two NH90 medium-sized helicopters.
Although primarily designated as a support vessel, the Royal Netherlands Navy has ambitious plans to enhance the Den Helder’s combat capabilities. It is slated to be equipped with a 76-millimeter naval gun featuring armor-piercing rounds, along with 12.7-millimeter machine guns and surface-to-air missiles, ensuring it can defend itself and its fleet in potential conflict situations.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The HNLMS Den Helder is powered by four state-of-the-art Wärtsila 31 engines paired with twin GE electric motors, allowing it to achieve a maximum operational speed of 20 knots (37 kilometers or 23 miles per hour). This combination of advanced engineering ensures not only efficient fuel consumption but also reliable performance during critical missions.
As the Den Helder prepares for its official integration into the Royal Netherlands Navy, it stands as a testament to modern naval design and engineering. Its ability to fulfill multiple roles while ensuring the logistical support of critical missions positions it as a cornerstone of the navy’s future operations.
