Damen taps Van Halteren Technologies to provide equipment for ASW frigates

Dutch shipbuilding major Damen Naval has awarded Van Halteren Technologies (VHT) two contracts for the anti-submarine warfare frigate (ASWF) program: the delivery of replenishment at sea (RAS) systems and helicopter transfer systems (HTS).

Van Halteren Technologies is a Dutch company focused on the design and manufacturing of specialized systems, technical solutions and services for defense and industrial applications.

According to Damen, the company was selected for its expertise and proven track record, which has been demonstrated in previous collaborations. Recently, the company completed successful RAS testing for the combat support ship (CSS) Den Helder. For the ASWF, the integration of RAS receivers into the super structures marks a significant engineering innovation.

The VHT RAS systems, designed for the safe transfer of liquids and solids at sea, are fully customizable and designed for safe, reliable operations under demanding naval conditions. Additionally, VHT’s helicopter transfer systems are designed for both manned and unmanned helicopters.

“These contracts mark another important step in delivering a future-proof platform that will strengthen European security and cooperation. We value working with trusted partners like Van Halteren Technologies who share our commitment to innovation,” said Fer Tummers, Project Director ASWF at Damen Naval.

“The ‘Proven in Practice’ RAS and HTS systems will be fully integrated into the ASWF platform as a project. For VHT, the contribution to the ASWF program is an excellent example to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise for Drive and Control technology in cooperation with Damen Naval,” according to Charles Simons, Sales Manager Naval Systems at VHT.

Damen also recently contracted Newthex, a Dutch company manufacturer of doors, hatches and elevators, to provide custom shell doors for the ASWF, handling the full scope from design to integration, including the associated hydraulic and electrical systems.

The ASW frigates, developed on behalf of the Netherlands Ministry of Defence for the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Belgian Navy, set a new European standard for advanced anti-submarine warfare vessels.

The frigates, set to replace the Karel Doorman class, are designed for anti-submarine warfare and can counter surface and air threats. They feature low acoustic signatures, advanced sensors, high survivability, and integrated automation. These multi-role vessels are also capable of handling lower-intensity operations, including counter-piracy, anti-terrorism, and maritime security operations.

The first vessel is scheduled to be delivered by Damen Naval in 2028.