On January 10, 2005 a contract was signed between the
Royal Netherlands Navy and Damen Shipyards Gorinchem for the design and construction of a Logistic Support Vessel (LSV). Following a tender procedure the initial award took place at the end of 2004 after which the contract was signed early January.
The 65 m long Support Vessel will be based in the Caribbean and will be deployed for the transport of equipment and personnel, mainly within the Netherlands Antilles.
A large cargo area is located at main deck level and can accommodate a range of different vehicles, support craft, containers and equipment.
Loading and unloading is done my means of an amply seized deck crane.
Accommodation is provided for crew and an additional complement of marines.
Propulsion is arranged by twin diesel engines driving fixed pitch propellers and giving this versatile vessel a speed in excess of 14 knots.
The new vessel will replace the
current vessel named HM “Pelikaan”. The vessel is expected to be delivered in May 2006.