Damen Naval announced on 20 December 20224 that it has signed a contract with Dutch naval architect and systems integrator Nevesbu for the platform engineering scope of the Plataforma Estratégica de Superficie (PES) frigate for Colombia.
The work includes both basic engineering and detailed engineering. Both Damen Naval and Nevesbu are sister companies within the overall Damen Shipyards Group.
Based on Damen Naval’s proven SIGMA 10514 series, the PES frigate is designed to combine versatility and combat capability while being tailored to meet the Colombian Navy’s specific requirements. Under the programme Damen Naval will enable COTECMAR (Corporación de Ciencia y Tecnología para el Desarrollo de la Industria Naval, Marítima y Fluvial), Colombia’s leading shipyard in Cartagena, to construct a frigate locally for the first time.
COTECMAR and Damen Naval signed an agreement to co-develop and produce five new frigates for the Colombian Navy in September 2022.
“This project highlights the power of collaboration within the Damen Shipyards Group, with Nevesbu’s advanced naval architecture and platform systems integration capabilities playing a key role,” Damen Naval Project Director Jasper Oreel was quoted as saying in a company press release. “Through our shared expertise, we contribute to a strong, self-sufficient defence industry in Colombia.”
Nevesbu platform engineers will work closely with Damen Naval Procurement to evaluate and contract suppliers to meet the equipment and service requirements of the PES frigate, with Bart van Rijssen, managing director of Nevesbu, stating, “We are proud to contribute to the realisation of this advanced frigate for the Colombian Navy.”
The first PES frigate, set for delivery in 2030, represents a major milestone for Colombian shipbuilding, with Damen Naval stating in a press release that the project “combines global expertise with local job creation and knowledge sharing, paving the way for a stronger, more self-reliant industry”.
