Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding (DSNS) has selected Rohde & Schwarz (R&S) to install communication systems in the Den Helder, a Royal Netherlands Navy’s (RNLN) combat support ship (CSS) currently under construction.

Under the contract, the companies will work for the delivery and installation of internal and external communication systems for the vessel.

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Built by DSNS, RNLN’s new CSS vessel is expected to strengthen the country’s capability at sea.

Delivery of the ship is scheduled for the second quarter of 2024.

As per the contract, R&S Benelux BV will install an integrated communications system aboard the CSS Den Helder.

This contract will enable RNLN to receive a standardised and proven system that ensures commonality across the Dutch naval fleet.

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For the past 20 years, RNLN has been using R&S communications systems on its vessels. This offers not only familiarity for crew but also helps in optimising the training and maintenance processes.

DSNS CSS project director Arjan Risseeuw said: “R&S have a good track record in delivering their equipment to RNLN vessels.

“We have collaborated with them before, on the Joint Support Ship HNLMS Karel Doorman, for which the Defence Materiel Organisation acted as intermediary for the Rohde & Schwarz equipment it purchased.

R&S Benelux sales manager Mischa van Santen said: “R&S Benelux will act as the communications system integrator for DSNS.

“Our local engineering team in Utrecht will make sure that we deliver according to schedule and budget, as well as that the system is supported through life by our Dutch personnel.

“Rohde & Schwarz Benelux currently also executes work together with Damen Shipyards in Den Helder for the current refit programmes of the RNLN support ship, HNLMS Pelikaan, and the Hydrographic vessels, HNLMS Snellius and HNLMS Luymes.”

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