(With extra pictures) On 28 July, Damen officially handed over the Multi-role Aviation Training Vessel (MATV) MV Sycamore to the Australian Navy.
The 94-metre long vessel is a versatile multi-role vessel and helicopter training platform for the Royal Australian Navy. The design is based on the hull of an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) 2400 and the Rescue Gear Ship (RGS) 9316 Stoker and the Escape Gear Ship (EGS) 8316 Besant, both delivered by Damen in 2015.
Commercial and Military
The MV Sycamore is a special purpose ship that has been designed and constructed to combine both commercial and military characteristics. Although the vessel will be commercially operated, it will integrate numerous strategic features. These include, for example, a helicopter deck with associated training facilities, dedicated aviation operational spaces, multifunctional mission deck and workshops as installed on the latest Royal Australian Navy ships – all meeting SOLAS Regulations.
Not limited to helicopter-related operations, the MATV will also enable the Royal Australian Navy to carry out navigation and air traffic control training, officer familiarisation, target towing, torpedo and mine recovery operations, and dive and unmanned aerial vehicle support.
Sycamore in SWZ Maritime
SWZ Maritime's Navy Special (the July-August issue) features an article on the Sycamore written by SWZ Maritime editor G.J. de Boer. The table below shows a list of the 12 vessels Damen delivered (or will deliver) to DMS, Australia. The photo album below that contains some extra pictures of the Sycamore (please click the pop-out link to view them in their proper dimensions).
