Netherlands names new hydrographic survey boat
The Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) christened its new prototype Expeditionary Survey Boat (ESB) on 26 February in a virtual ceremony in Den Helder.
Built by Damen, Hydrograaf is 15.7m long, 4.18m in height and weighs 24t. This tonnage allows the boat to be transported aboard RNLN logistics support vessels such as Johan de Witt and Rotterdam, the Dutch MoD noted in a statement.
The ESB is designed to replace smaller 10m vessels currently being used by the RNLN for hydrographic surveys. It can reach speeds in excess of 20kt, said Peter van den Berg, deputy director of Damen Shipyards Den Helder.
Hydrograaf will have a crew of four: two to handle the boat and two technicians to operate the hydrographic equipment. It will carry out rapid environmental assessments and hydrographic surveys in harbours, river mouths, shallow waters, coastal areas and shipping channels.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
More from Naval Warfare
-
US tests the newest QUICKSINK maritime weapon variant in the Norwegian Sea
The low-cost, anti-ship, precision-guided 500lb class capability was launched by a USAF B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
-
US Navy seeks suppliers for Landing Craft Utility 1700-class
With ongoing market research to find potential shipyards for building LCUs, NAVSEA intends to issue a request for proposals for the programme next year.
-
US Coast Guard orders 10 additional Fast Response Cutters
The USCG exercised a $507 million contract option for the acquisition of 10 extra FRCs. This new order will raise the total number of Sentinel-class vessels procured by the service from 67 to 77.
-
DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
-
Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.