GE electric propulsion package for new Dutch Navy combat support vessel

The supply ship is based on an existing vessel design, that of Joint Supply Ship HNLMS Karel Doorman. The vessel is scheduled for delivery in June 2024. The CSS will be built by Damen in Romania.

GE’s scope of supply includes the main switchboards for the ship distribution system, with two shore connection cubicles, the main electric propulsion system with two shaft lines of 7.9 MW each, as well as the associated power management and remote-control systems. The ship’s Energy Management System, which controls power generation and distribution systems, also supplied by GE, will ensure availability of electrical power in the ship network.

The use of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) voltage source inverters feeding high-torque density induction motors, allows high-performance through the propulsion system, according to GE.

GE notes that its electric propulsion technology was selected for its low noise signature, high level of reliability as well as its commonality with HNLMS Karel Doorman. “One of the customer’s key concerns is underwater radiated noise, meaning strict noise and vibration levels are imposed on the propulsion systems,” GE concluded.