Damen Shipyards Group Signs Key Contracts for Tug Construction

On June 25th, during a ceremony at Albwardy Damen in the UAE, Damen Shipyards Group signed a significant contract with Western Coast Port Services (WCPS) to build six ASD Tugs. This order includes five ASD Tugs 2813 and one ASD Tug 3212, destined for operation at Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Port. Damen’s ability to customize its vessels to meet client-specific needs is a notable advantage, and for this order, the company is incorporating additional air-conditioning and cooling equipment to ensure optimal performance in the Middle Eastern climate. Karim Barakat, CEO of WCPS, praised Damen for its client-centric approach, emphasizing the fast delivery, customization, and lifecycle support provided. Emre Turkoz, Damen Regional Sales Director, highlighted that the order demonstrates WCPS’s commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement in port services.

Toyota Tsusho Collaboration for Angolan Port Development

Damen also signed a contract with Toyota Tsusho for four vessels as part of a Japanese Government-funded port development project in Namibia, Angola. The order comprises two ASD Tugs 2813, a Pushy Cat 1004, and a Stan Pilot 1905, with delivery scheduled for Q1 2025. The vessels are being constructed at Damen Shipyards Gorinchem (Pushy Cat 1004), Damen Shipyards Antalya (Stan Pilot 1905), and Damen Song Cam Shipyard (ASD Tugs 2813). Toyota Tsusho, a first-time client of Damen, is involved in diverse sectors and frequently collaborates with the Japanese Government on global infrastructure projects. Hiroumi Ohara, General Manager Africa Power & Infrastructure Department of Toyota Tsusho, expressed anticipation for the cooperation, noting the importance of these high-quality workboats for boosting the Angolan economy. Thomas Röwekamp, Regional Sales Director Asia Pacific at Damen, highlighted the pride in working with a new client and the potential impact of the contract on Angola’s port capabilities and economic growth.

Impact and Future Prospects

The Namibe port development project, Toyota Tsusho’s first in Angola, began in early 2019 and aims to expand the container terminal and construct a new terminal to accommodate larger vessels and diversify the materials handled. This initiative is expected to create employment opportunities, achieve full independence in import activities, reduce freight transportation costs, and enhance the national economy. Toyota Tsusho has a long history in Angola, dating back to 1966 when it first exported cars to the country. The collaboration with Damen Shipyards is anticipated to strengthen economic ties and foster long-term relationships.