Netherlands names new hydrographic survey boat
Hydrograaf is designed to replace smaller craft in Royal Netherlands Navy service.
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
-
![Canada’s selection of TKMS for its new patrol submarines reflects rising Arctic competition]()
Canada’s selection of TKMS for its new patrol submarines reflects rising Arctic competition
The decision points to deepening NATO cooperation and mounting competition in the Arctic and North Atlantic, as Canada opts for a European-designed solution despite interest from South Korea.
-
![US Navy’s MUSV programme could lay the USV procurement blueprint for NATO allies]()
US Navy’s MUSV programme could lay the USV procurement blueprint for NATO allies
The programme’s structure as a marketplace will allow multiple companies to compete for ongoing procurements; an approach which could be replicated across the Atlantic.
-
![UK Defence Investment Plan: What does it mean for the country’s naval forces?]()
UK Defence Investment Plan: What does it mean for the country’s naval forces?
Investment in nuclear submarines, autonomous systems and stronger defensive capabilities for existing vessels show a clear strategic shift in Royal Navy priorities.
-
![UK Royal Navy shifts focus from warships to system-led warfare]()
UK Royal Navy shifts focus from warships to system-led warfare
With a revised Defence Investment Plan on the way ahead of the upcoming NATO Summit on 7-8 July, the UK government has begun to reveal more details of how its future naval fleet could look.
