Shipbuilder Damen Naval has commissioned gearbox manufacturer Renk to supply eight gearboxes four the four anti-submarine warfare (ASW) frigates ordered by Belgium and the Netherlands, the companies announced on 4 April 2024.
The two countries each ordered two ASW frigates from Daman Naval under a joint programme in October 2023.
According to Renk, the companies have developed a propulsion solution for the frigates’ combined diesel-electric and diesel (CODLAD) propulsion systems that meets the requirements of an ASW frigate, focusing on quiet propulsion and high resistance to external influences.
Damen Naval already uses Renk’s customised propulsion solutions for the German F126 multi-purpose frigates currently being built for the German Navy and for its successfully exported Sigma-class frigates. With this order the Dutch/Belgian ASW frigates will now be added to the list.
“This propulsion system sets a milestone in the marine segment and this order fits seamlessly into the close co-operation between our two companies,” said Nils Oesterlen, Head of Marine at Renk. “Proven components from propulsion systems such as the German F125 and F126 frigates, the Italian FREMM or the Korean FFX-III class make the gearboxes the robust, maintenance-friendly and reliable centrepiece of the propulsion system.”
According to Renk, it will also support the Dutch maritime industry with its Dutch subsidiary Schelde Gears, which, like Damen Naval, is based in Vlissingen.
The first gearboxes are scheduled to arrive for installation in October 2025. The first ASW frigate from Damen Naval is scheduled for delivery in 2028.
The Netherlands Ministry of Defence stated in March 2023 that its first ASW frigate should be ready for deployment in 2029, with the second ship of the class going to Belgium a year later.
