The IP Company signed a contract with Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding (DSNS) for the
delivery and installation of their Wireless Communication & Messaging System (WCMS) for
the Royal Netherlands Navy’s (RNLN) Combat Support Ship (CSS), Den Helder.
With the contract, the RNLN will receive a system based on proven technology and
standardized to provide commonality across the Dutch naval fleet. The IP Company has
delivered the WCMS onboard the RNLN’s Ocean-Going Patrol Vessels of the Holland Class
and the Joint Support Ship HNLMS Karel Doorman. This means that the complete CSS
system has the same look and feel as the systems present on the other vessels. It also
guarantees that new developments on the Holland Class and HNLMS Karel Doorman will be
implemented on the CSS as well. This commonality offers not only crew familiarity, but also
optimizes training, maintenance and many other processes.
The IP Company is at the forefront of technology and offers innovative solutions for a truly
state-of-the-art secure wireless communications system. The unique feature of our systems
are that they convey both voice and data, enabling communication between crew members,
both in the administrative and operational domains. The system is an integrated one, which
connects regular desk phones as well as secure wireless handheld devices, all further
enhanced with specific functions for naval use, ensuring that information ends up directly at
the right people. These people can then be mobilized immediately, increasing efficiency and
improving on board safety.
Although DSNS has collaborated with The IP Company on previous vessels built for the
Royal Netherlands Navy, for which the Defence Materiel Organisation acted as intermediary,
the two companies will now work together directly to provide the CSS with a wireless
communication suite with proven high reliability. Following the signing of the contract, The IP
Company will commence engineering. Equipment supply to the CSS is scheduled to begin in
the first half of 2022.