Damen Shipyards Group has announced the introduction of a new range of naval support vessels. The Logistics Support Ship (LSS) series will play an important role in extending the operational reach of naval forces, enabling sustained deployment and enhancing logistical support capabilities in a cost-effective manner.
The LSS range consists of two vessel types, the LSS 9000 and LSS 11000, 127 and 140 metres in length, respectively. Damen has designed the vessels to meet the diverse needs of the modern navy. As such, the LSS offers a broad mix of capabilities ensuring readiness and flexibility.
The vessels will be equipped with NATO-standard replenishment at sea (RAS) technology, RoRo capabilities, and substantial cargo transportation capacity. They will be installed with modern navigation and communication systems to ensure safe and efficient operation.
The LSS will facilitate the efficient transfer and transport of fuel, munitions, provisions, personnel and other essential supplies. The vessels will serve as the backbone of naval logistics, enabling fleets to remain operational far from their home port during extended deployment. They will provide navies with a critical capability that enhances the ability to project power and maintain a presence in key maritime areas.
With its modular design, the LSS can be easily and rapidly configured and upgraded for special operational requirements. The scope of the vessels covers duties such as disaster relief, humanitarian assistance and training exercises.
A key feature of the LSS is the ability to operate in diverse maritime environments, from the open ocean to littoral waters. This versatility arises from an advanced design and engineering process and the combination of both military and commercial standard technology, a combination which also ensures lower OPEX and CAPEX.
In addition to operational efficiency, in line with the ambitions of many navies, the LSS has a sharp focus on sustainability. The LSS will be outfitted with advanced propulsions systems that will reduce fuel consumption and emissions considerably.
Piet van Rooij, Commercial Manager Defence & Security at Damen said, “We have developed the LSS based on discussions with our naval clients around the world. As such, we are confident it represents an appropriate response to the operational challenges they are facing, now and in the future. The LSS offers enhanced capabilities, efficiency and sustainability at a very competitive price. As these vessels enter service, they will undoubtedly play a crucial role in supporting the strategic objective of navies around the world.”
Would the RAN still be interested in these? There certainly is a need… 4 of the smaller vessel would be great. Are these similar to the Damen LST 100 models?
The problem is the ADF cannot afford more of anything because AUKUS Pillar One is sucking up so much money. We have just given US submarine building companies $800 million for nothing – more than this year’s entire budget for the Hunter class frigate program. I think next year will see an even larger cash donation – and that’s before we pay for the two second-hand clunkers, which are likely to be way north of $5 billion each.
Maybe we should offer the two Supply Class we’ve got tied up in port for one of theirs?
Back in the eighties the RAN consisted of 6 submarines, 3 air warfare destroyers, 6 frigates and 2 supply ships. Today some 40 years later nothing has changed.
Correct. At least back then, the two supply ships were able to put to sea. To be fair, we do have two LHDs but not the helicopters to equip them since the appalling decision to scrap the entire Taipan helicopter fleet.
Kym, we did have 2 Newport class tank landing ships from the US navy which the RAN tried to turn into amphibious helicopter ships.
Another total procurement disaster. The RAN team sent to inspect them actually spent all of their time on the golf course, in bars and in brothels. They dutifully reported back, declaring the ships to be 100% perfect because they came from the USN and when would ever the USN lie to us. In fact they were riddled with rust and stuffed full of asbestos lagging. Impact: ships two (2) years late and about $450 million over the original estimate. Thank you Navy. Oh – and the original RAN inspection team? All promoted.