The cutting is the first of sixteen batches, totaling 180 sections of 7500 tons of steel.

In this project, this represents a significant milestone, the first tangible part of the building.

The steel cutting was scheduled to take place next year in February. In order to safeguard the progress of the project during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and to effectively manage the enhanced safety rules that alter the way the shipyard operates, DSNS has brought the date forward.

With the building of the CSS, the RNLN's maritime supply capability will be restored. The vessel will work alongside the HNLMS Karel Doorman Joint Support Ship (JSS) and is based on the same design.

The vessel's engineering is mainly performed in the Netherlands and the project will provide jobs for more than 100 firms, mainly Dutch. To date, 47 CSS contracts have been signed, of which 34 are with maritime suppliers in the Netherlands.

The next landmark will be next year in May, when the ceremony for keel-laying will take place.

Maritime Business World