Can it be a little earlier?

Something new from the shipbuilding industry: The Dutch shipyard Damen started cutting the first steel plates for the Combat Support Ship "Den Helder" last December. What's special about this? This work was not actually planned until February 2021. But then the planners took a closer look at the extensive coronavirus measures at the shipyard in Galati, Romania, and at the suppliers. They predicted that the work might progress more slowly than planned and brought forward the start of firing by two months. This should ensure that the "Den Helder" is delivered on time despite the restrictions.
The Combat Support Ship will once again ensure the supply of the Dutch Navy at sea. Together with the "Karel Doorman", the new ship will operate worldwide and, thanks to the protection of frigates, also under threat. In addition, missions can be carried out against drug smugglers, to control migrant flows and for disaster relief.
The next milestone in the project is the keel laying, which is planned for May.

Text: mb; Photo: Damen