In December 2005 the Swedish Coast Guard awarded Damen the newbuilding contract for two state-of-the-art 81-metre Coast Guard Vessels. Construction of these vessels is currently taking place at Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania and delivery for the first vessel is scheduled for the summer of 2008, the second vessel will follow towards the end of 2008.
The contract included an option for a third vessel; this option has now been exercised. The third vessel is specially designed and equipped to perform chemical recovery duties and is provided with very sophisticated equipment which enables the vessel to combat abroad range marine accidents involving fire, hazardous gasses, explosion danger and chemical disasters.
The capabilities of this multi purpose vessel makes it unique in the world. Delivery will take place by the end of 2009.
The newbuilding contract for three high-tech vessels is a joint effort between Schelde Naval Shipbuilding, Damen Shipyards Galati and Damen Shipyards Gorinchem.