HNLMS Den Helder – baptism of the new logistics support vessel Koninklijke Marine

After successful sea trials and first arrival on Dutch waters, new logistics support vessel HNLMS Den Helder (A834) was solemnly baptized at Damen Naval shipyard in Vlissingen.

In the article

**HNLMS baptism Den Helder – the next stage before entering service**

The ceremony was held on February 22, 2025. The traditional baptism act was performed by Princess Orania, Catherine-Amalia, saying:

I give you the name Den Helder and wish you and your crew safe service and successful missions..

Then, according to naval tradition, she smashed a bottle of champagne into the hull of the unit.

New logistics support vessel Koninklijke Marine

HNLMS Den Helder is one of the largest ships ever formed for the Dutch Navy, although its dimensions are slightly smaller than HNLMS Karel Doorman. The unit is 179.5 metres long, 22 metres wide and buoyancy about 20,000 tons. It was designed as a modern logistics support vessel, whose main task will be to supply offshore vessels with fuel, water, ammunition and other necessary resources, allowing them to operate longer without having to call for port.

A crew of 75 will be stationed on board, with a maximum capacity of 160 staff members. The ship is equipped with a combustion-electric drive that allows to reach a speed of 20 knots.

HNLMS Den Helder will be able to transport more than 7600 m3 of diesel, 1000 m3 of aviation fuel, 226 m3 of drinking water and 434 tonnes of other goods, including ammunition and supplies. The ship has been equipped with two deck cranes with a load capacity of 40 tonnes, which allows for a smooth crossingCargo transport containers and heavy equipment. Additionally, the unit has offshore stock replenishment (RAS) systems, which significantly increases its logistical capacity.

Modern equipment and operational capabilities

Although HNLMS Den Helder It's a support unit, it's equipped with defense systems that will provide him with the ability to defend himself in vulnerable areas. The weapon includes the MOTO Melara Kal. 76 mm naval cannon, capable of combating air and water purposes, a short-range RIM-116 RAM missile system that will provide protection against anti-shipper missiles, as well as four remote-controlled LionFish Kal. 12.7 mm machine guns for defense against asymmetric hazards.

On board is a hangar and landing ground for two NH90 NFH helicopters, which can be used both for transport missions and for combating submarines. Additionally, the ship will carry two LCVP landing boats, allowing rapid transport of people and equipment to land. Target surveillance and detection systems will provide modern Thales NS100 and Thales Pharos radars.

HNLMS Den Helder will have unlimited operational capacity to sea status 5 and will be able to operate with certain limitations at sea state 6 and above. Despite the large size, the unit is highly automated, allowing to limit the number of crews to 75 people, with the possibility of accommodation for additional 80 specialists or operational personnel.

**Meaning of HNLMS Den Helder for Koninklijke Marine**

The construction of HNLMS Den Helder is part of a wider modernization program Koninklijke Marine, which includes the construction of new frigates for the Netherlands and Belgium, submarines and patrolmen. This ship will increase the operational autonomy of the Dutch fleet, as well as its ability to support allied units in NATO operations.

Managing Director of Damen Naval, Roland Briene, stressed the importance of this unit for the fleet:

We are proud that Damen Naval is responsible for building this unit. The baptism of HNLMS Den Helder is part of a long tradition of royal family ties to the Navy and our shipyard.

Also Deputy Commander COMMIT, General Dyw. Harold Boekholt, noted the strategic role of this unit, pointing out that after completing all tests and retrofitting the Navy would receive a comprehensive and innovative support ship prepared for action for many years.

Flag raising and official entry into service

After the baptism ceremony, the ship will undergo final equipment and further testing. Once they have been completed, the flag will be raised, which will formally mean bringing the unit into service. The whole process is due to be completed in 2025 and HNLMS Den Helder will operate from its home base in Den Helder, carrying out supply missions, humanitarian operations and NATO support.

Written by Mariusz Dasiewicz