With a festive ceremony in Den Helder, the
Dutch Navy
officially commissioned its new Combat Support Ship (CSS) on October 1. The ship now bears the title “Zijner Majesteits (Zr.Ms.) Den Helder” – a significant step in the ongoing modernization of the fleet.
Traditionally, the so-called Oorlogswimpel was hoisted – a centuries-old custom that symbolizes commitment, honour and close ties to maritime tradition. With this act, the “Zr.Ms. Den Helder” is now officially designated as a warship of the Dutch Navy.
The 179-metre-long supply ship has a crew of 76 and space for a further 80 embarked crew members. It can carry up to 20 standard containers and is therefore ideally equipped for logistical tasks.
As a floating supply platform, the Combat Support Ship delivers fuel, ammunition, spare parts and food to other ships at sea. This means that national and international naval units rarely have to interrupt their operations. In addition, the “Zr.Ms. Den Helder” also has a modern Role 2 onboard hospital that enables surgical interventions and comprehensive medical care – a decisive added value for multinational operations worldwide.
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With the commissioning of the new Combat Support Ship, the Dutch Navy is beginning the first phase of its comprehensive fleet rejuvenation. Further new frigates, minesweepers and submarines will follow in the coming years.
Intensive training and test runs are now scheduled until it reaches full operational readiness in 2026. It will begin with a deployment in the Caribbean, where the ship will be tested in hot climatic conditions.
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