Damen Shipyards Group unveils new range of naval support vessels
Peter Felstead
The Netherlands’ Damen Shipyards Group announced the introduction of a new range of naval support vessels on 13 February 2025.
The Logistics Support Ship (LSS) series is designed to play an important role in extending the operational reach of naval forces, enabling sustained deployment and enhancing logistical support capabilities in a cost-effective manner.
The LSS range consists of two vessel types, the LSS 9000 and LSS 11000, which are 127 m and 140 m in length respectively. The vessels are designed to meet the diverse needs of modern navies and to offer a broad mix of capabilities to ensure readiness and flexibility.
The vessels will be equipped with NATO-standard replenishment-at-sea (RAS) technology, roll on/roll off (RoRo) capabilities and substantial cargo transportation capacities. Daman added that the ships will feature modern navigation and communication systems to ensure safe and efficient operation.
The LSS vessels will facilitate the efficient transfer and transport of fuel, munitions, provisions, personnel and other essential supplies. They are designed to serve as the backbone of naval logistics, enabling fleets to remain operational far from their home port during extended deployments.
“They will provide navies with a critical capability that enhances the ability to project power and maintain a presence in key maritime areas,” Damen stated.
The modular LSS design can be easily and rapidly configured and upgraded for special operational requirements, with the scope of the vessels covering duties such as disaster relief, humanitarian assistance and training exercises.
A key feature of the LSS design is the ability to operate in diverse maritime environments, from the open ocean to littoral waters. This versatility arises from an advanced design and engineering process and the combination of both military and commercial standard technology: a combination that also ensures lower capital expenditure and operational costs.
In addition to operational efficiency, in line with the ambitions of many navies, the LSS design has a sharp focus on sustainability. The LSS vessels will be outfitted with advanced propulsion systems that will reduce fuel consumption and emissions considerably, according to Damen.
“We have developed the LSS based on discussions with our naval clients around the world,” noted Piet van Rooij, Damen’s commercial manager for defence and security, in a company press release. “As such, we are confident it represents an appropriate response to the operational challenges they are facing, now and in the future. The LSS offers enhanced capabilities, efficiency and sustainability at a very competitive price. As these vessels enter service, they will undoubtedly play a crucial role in supporting the strategic objective of navies around the world,” he added.
