Damen Marine Components (DMC) has landed a significant contract to supply state-of-the-art steering and propulsion systems for four dry cargo vessels currently under construction at GS Projects’ shipyard in Waterhuizen, the Netherlands. This project is a collaborative effort involving Groot Ship Design and Ship and Steelbuilding (SaS), with the ships commissioned by Longship, a prominent shortsea shipping operator.
Under the agreement, DMC will provide its innovative ‘plug-and-play’ Piston RAM-type steering systems, advanced Barke rudders, and efficient Optima nozzles. These components are tailored to match the vessels’ specifications—99 meters in length, 15 meters in width, a draft of 6.2 meters, and a deadweight capacity of 5,900 tonnes. Additionally, the vessels will adhere to Lloyd’s Register classification and the stringent Finnish-Swedish 1A ice class standards.
The Barke rudder, a hallmark of DMC’s engineering, is designed to enhance maneuverability and stability through its progressively operating flap linkage system. This setup not only improves handling but also ensures reduced fuel consumption and maintenance costs—two critical factors for modern shipping operators. Similarly, the Optima nozzle is renowned among shipowners for its reliability and ability to optimize fuel efficiency, particularly valuable in the shortsea shipping sector.
Scheduled for delivery starting in early 2026, these vessels benefit from DMC’s pre-tested, fully certified hydraulic steering systems that are ready for immediate installation. Henk Oudman, Project Manager at GS Projects, highlights this aspect, saying, “DMC’s piston steering system will arrive fully tested and certified, significantly speeding up our shipyard operations. Their ‘plug-and-play’ approach is a game-changer for a smooth construction process.”
The collaboration underscores the strengths of the Dutch maritime sector. DMC Area Sales Manager Leo van Zon expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting, “It’s exciting to work on this multi-vessel contract with GS Projects and Longship. A Dutch shipping company building ships in the Netherlands with Dutch components is a testament to our maritime industry’s efficiency and innovation. We’re ready to support GS Projects every step of the way, from preparation to on-site installation.”
As the Dutch maritime industry continues to demonstrate its capacity for cutting-edge innovation and collaboration, this project serves as a shining example of the nation’s enduring strength in shipbuilding and marine technology.
