Damen Shipyards has been recognized for its excellence in product launches, particularly with its Multi-Purpose Support Ship (MPSS), in the 2024 Naval Technology Excellence Awards.
The Naval Technology Excellence Awards celebrate the greatest achievements and innovations in the defense industry, with a special focus on the Navy. Powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, the Awards recognize the people and companies that are driving change in the industry.
Damen Shipyards won the Product Launches award due to the MPSS’s modular design, which allows for flexibility and adaptability in meeting diverse defense needs. The company was also recognized for operational excellence with the MPSS’s multi-functional capabilities, enabling it to perform a wide range of tasks from drone management to disaster relief. Additionally, Damen’s strategic use of commercial off-the-shelf technology in the MPSS’s construction contributed to the recognition for being cost-effective, ensuring a reliable and economically viable naval solution.
Innovative modular design for modern defense needs
Damen Shipyards has been awarded for its innovative approach to naval vessel design, as demonstrated by the MPSS. The ship’s modular design allows for a high degree of flexibility and adaptability, enabling it to meet a wide range of defense and security requirements. This approach ensures that the vessel can be quickly reconfigured to perform various roles, from managing drones to conducting disaster relief operations.
The MPSS range includes 7000 and 9000-ton versions, each designed to accommodate different operational needs. The MPSS 7000, measuring 107 x 20 meters, can be operated by a crew of 48 personnel, with additional facilities for up to 100 special personnel and temporary accommodation for 42 persons. The larger MPSS 9000, at 130 x 20 meters, offers even greater operational capabilities. By incorporating commercial off-the-shelf technology, Damen has ensured that the MPSS is not only versatile, but also cost-effective and easy to maintain. This modularity significantly enhances the vessel’s operational uptime, making it a valuable asset for any naval fleet.
Multi-functional capabilities enhance operational value
The MPSS’s multi-functional capabilities are a key factor in Damen’s recognition. Designed in collaboration with the Portuguese Navy, the vessel is equipped to handle a diverse array of tasks, including drone management, amphibious support, search and rescue, and submarine rescue operations. This versatility is achieved through mission-specific equipment modules, which allow the ship to transition seamlessly between different roles. The MPSS is particularly adept at managing drones across air, sea, and sub-sea domains, reflecting the increasing importance of unmanned systems in modern naval operations. Additionally, the vessel can support helicopter operations, diving support, and emergency/disaster relief efforts, further underscoring its utility in various scenarios. The ability to perform such a wide range of operations makes the MPSS an indispensable tool for modern navies, providing significant value for taxpayers by maximizing the utility of a single vessel.
Cost-effective construction with commercial technology
Damen’s strategic use of commercial off-the-shelf technology in the construction of the MPSS has been a pivotal factor in its award-winning product launch. By integrating readily available commercial components, Damen has reduced both the cost and construction time of the vessel. This approach not only ensures a reliable and robust platform, but also makes the MPSS an economically viable option for navies worldwide. The use of standardized solutions wherever possible allows for quick construction, aligning with Damen’s proven shipbuilding processes.
The cost-effectiveness of the MPSS is further enhanced by its ability to remain at sea for periods of at least 45 days, reducing the need for frequent port visits and increasing operational efficiency. This extended sea endurance, combined with the vessel’s easy maintenance, contributes to its overall value, making it a strategic investment for naval forces looking to optimize their operational capabilities.
Company Profile
Headquartered in the Netherlands, Damen Shipyards Group is a family-owned company that specializes in maritime services. The company’s main activities include shipbuilding, ship repair and conversion, and offshore construction. Damen offers a wide range of vessels such as tugs, workboats, pilot and tender vessels, ferries, dredging and offshore support vessels, pontoons and barges, defense and security vessels, research and science vessels, cargo vessels, fishing vessels, and used vessels. The company also provides lifecycle support, service hubs, financing, chartering, and brokerage services. Damen’s products and services cater to various markets including harbour and terminal, offshore energy, dredging, public transport, defense and security, aquaculture, fishing, inland shipping, and yachting. The company has presence across Africa, the Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East.
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