The long-standing relationship between the Netherlands and Australia has taken on a new dimension through shipbuilding. Dutch shipbuilding giant Damen, one of Europe’s premier maritime engineering companies, is playing a growing role in Australia’s naval and civilian maritime sectors.
Founded in 1927, Damen Shipyards Group has become one of the most influential shipbuilders in the world. Headquartered in Gorinchem, the Netherlands, the family-owned company operates over 35 shipyards and service hubs worldwide, employing more than 12,000 people. Known for their modular shipbuilding methods, Damen has delivered over 6,000 vessels globally, serving both defence and commercial sectors.
Damen and Australia: A Strategic Partnership
Damen’s connection with Australia has expanded significantly over the past decade. It is currently partnering with Austal, a leading Australian shipbuilder, to deliver eight new Landing Craft Heavy (LCH) vessels for the Australian Defence Force. These ships, designed by Damen, will be built in Western Australia and tailored to Australian conditions—reinforcing the shift toward more local production and strategic industry collaboration.
Interestingly, Austal itself carries a Dutch heritage, which further enriches this partnership. The company’s founding figures were of Dutch descent, and their shipbuilding philosophy—focused on efficiency, modularity, and durability—echoes the legacy of Dutch maritime innovation. For more on Austal’s background, see our recent article on the DACC website: Dutchman John Rothwell founder of Austal
Tugboats for Australian Naval Ports
In 2023, Damen was awarded a contract to supply new harbour tugboats to support operations at Australian naval ports. These vessels are based on Damen’s Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) 2111 design, known for its high performance in confined maritime environments.
The tugboats are being constructed at Damen Shipyards Changde, in Hunan Province, China. This facility has delivered vessels to clients around the world for over 30 years, offering quality construction at competitive pricing. Final fitouts will occur in the region prior to delivery in Australia. While operated by civilian contractors, the tugboats will support naval port operations and are designed for long-term service and sustainability, with Damen committed to ongoing Australian support.
From Tugboats to Icebreakers: Damen’s Growing Role
The tugboat project is not Damen’s first high-profile maritime collaboration with Australia. In 2021, Damen also delivered the RSV Nuyina, one of the world’s most advanced Antarctic research vessels. Commissioned by the Australian Government, the Nuyina was constructed at Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania—another key Damen facility—and completed with final outfitting in the Netherlands. See also: RSV Nuyina: A Modern Icebreaker with Deep Dutch Australian Roots
The Nuyina now serves as Australia’s flagship Antarctic research platform, supporting year-round missions to the southern continent. Its construction exemplifies Damen’s ability to manage complex, international shipbuilding collaborations while reinforcing the long-standing maritime ties between the Netherlands and Australia.
A Modern Expression of Historic Ties
Whether it’s tugboats, military landing craft, or Antarctic research ships, Damen’s work with Australia represents more than a commercial relationship. It is a modern expression of shared maritime heritage, combining Dutch innovation with Australia’s operational needs and long-term strategic planning.
These projects remind us that while the Netherlands and Australia are oceans apart, their cooperation at sea continues to grow—anchored in history, but directed toward the future.
Paul Budde
