Fugro and Damen have entered into a partnership to supply a surveillance vessel and operational crew to the Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN). The contract, awarded by the Dutch Ministry of Defence, aims to enhance maritime security and surveillance capabilities within the Netherlands’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the North Sea.
The vessel will be used for both surface and subsea operations — monitoring shipping activity and inspecting critical underwater infrastructure such as cables and pipelines. Advanced technologies, including unmanned systems, will play a key role in these missions.
To fulfill the contract, Fugro and Damen have established a joint venture. The agreement involves a two-year charter with the option to extend twice for one year, allowing for up to four years of service. The charter, awarded through a public tender process, is set to begin in the first half of 2025.
The vessel selected for the charter is the Damen FCS 5009, known for its excellent seakeeping performance, thanks to the Sea Axe bow design developed in collaboration with Delft University of Technology.
