The Royal Netherlands Navy has a lot of new vessels on the way that will require more berthing space. The Central Government Real Estate Agency (Rijksvastgoedbedrijf, RVB) will therefore begin construction next year on four new quays in Den Helder, while also looking for additional sites.
On 1 October, the Royal Netherlands Navy will formally commission its new replenishment ship, the Combat Support Ship (CSS) named Den Helder. According to the Ministry of Defence, this is a significant milestone, as the new CSS heralds the replacement of almost the entire naval fleet. The RVB has been tasked with building quays for these new ships, which are not only more modern, but often larger than their predecessors.
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Berghaven
The Berghaven in Den Helder has been designated as the future berth for the nearly 180-metre-long CSS, where it will be able to refuel, load containers, and take on munitions. The site will also accommodate three smaller vessels.
Before that can happen, however, significant work is needed: the current concrete pier has been condemned and will be demolished; an existing spit of land will be dredged to create water; and a cargo handling area will be built where water currently lies. In addition, the water depth is currently insufficient for the larger ships, making dredging essential.
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Essential capability
The CSS and its dedicated quay are crucial to naval operations. During exercises or missions, the CSS can supply other naval ships with fuel, munitions, and spare parts, and also serves as a floating hospital. ‘That makes the Den Helder essential for the long-term deployment of naval vessels. Within NATO, there is strong demand for this type of replenishment ship,’ Defence stated.
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Shore power
The contract to produce the final design and specifications for the quays has been awarded to Arcadis. In 2026, the RVB will issue the tender for construction, which can only be carried out by a select number of hydraulic engineering firms. The challenge lies in ensuring all systems meet the Dutch Navy’s exacting requirements and operational methods.
For example, once the ship docks, it immediately switches to shore power. The main power supply will be provided by Defence itself, while the RVB will use its electrical and mechanical engineering expertise to ensure the quay’s connections are compatible with Defence’s systems.
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Completion in 2030
In many respects, the facilities will resemble those of a conventional port, but the systems will be built to withstand heavier loads. The Royal Netherlands Navy also operates its own data and security networks and requires specialised provisions for loading munitions, spare parts, and tracked vehicles.
The quays are scheduled for completion by the end of 2030. As even more berthing capacity will be needed, the RVB has also been tasked with identifying further potential locations.
Picture: The Den Helder, the Royal Netherlands Navy’s new Combat Support Ship (photo by the Dutch Ministry of Defence/Central Government Real Estate Agency).
