Answer to increased use of drone technology at sea
February 29, 2024By Seawork Press FP
Damen Shipyards
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A new vessel design, the Multi-Purpose Support Ship (MPSS) based on modern defence and security requirements, has been co-developed by Damen with the Portuguese Navy, the vessel’s launching customer.
Unveiled as a solution for the increasing use of drone technology in combat and surveillance, the MPSS is designed to fulfil a wide range of additional tasks, including auxiliary roles, in addition to its primary function.
While the electrical, communication and navigation equipment installed on the MPSS will be military class equipment, the vessel will also use commercial off the shelf technology to achieve its multi-functional capability, enabling the MPSS can be applied to a wide range of duties including managing drones (air, sea, and sub-sea), conducting amphibious support, emergency/disaster relief, search & rescue, diving support, performing submarine rescue operations and helicopter operations.
Piet van Rooij, Commercial Manager of Damen’s Defence and Security department, said of the new vessel, “The MPSS range is a response to the increasing use of drone technology that we see in modern combat and surveillance situations. We could see that such capabilities would be of growing importance for countries looking to sustain their sovereignty.
“At the same time, this is a multi-purpose vessel that can be applied to wide range of additional operations, thereby offering value for taxpayer’s money. This theme is further developed using commercial off the shelf technology, which ensure the cost-effective construction of a reliable platform. We’re very much looking forward to showcasing this new vessel, including at exhibitions, in the coming months.”
The MPSS Series will be available in 7000 and 9000 ton versions. The MPSS 7000 is 107 x 20 metres, will be operated by a crew of 48 personnel, with additional facilities for up to 100 special personnel and extra, temporary, accommodation for 42 persons, for example in the event of a disaster relief operation. The MPSS 9000 is 130 x 20 meters with scope for further operational. capabilities. The vessels will be able to be at sea for periods of at least 45 days continuously.
