- Mr. Kommer Damen received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of over fifty years of innovation and leadership in tug design.
- Damen Shipyards continues its legacy by advancing sustainable tug technologies, such as the fully electric RSD-E Tug 2513 and fuel-flexible ASD tugs to support the energy transition.
- The award presentation featured a video tribute highlighting Mr. Damen’s professional achievements, integrity, and collaborative spirit, with CEO Arnout Damen reaffirming the company’s commitment to these values.
At the closing dinner of the TUGTECHNOLOGY 2025 conference in Antwerp, Mr. Kommer Damen, Chairman of Damen Shipyards Group, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. This honor, given by the International Tug & Salvage Awards, recognizes individuals who have made a lasting and significant impact on the global tug industry.
Fifty Years of Dedication and Progress in Tugbuilding
Mr. Kommer Damen, unaware of his nomination, was genuinely surprised to receive the award. He accepted the honour in the presence of his wife, colleagues, clients, and maritime professionals from around the world.
The award recognizes over fifty years of dedication. Since 1969, when he introduced standardised shipbuilding, Mr. Damen has influenced modern tug design. Under his leadership, Damen developed key vessel types such as the ASD, ATD, and RSD Tugs, many now global standards.
Recently, Damen has advanced this legacy by launching compact, highly manoeuvrable, and more sustainable tugs. The fully electric RSD-E Tug 2513, operating in Europe and the Middle East, marks progress in zero-emission technology. The company is also working on fuel-flexible ASD tugs to support the energy transition.
During the award presentation, a video tribute shared messages from clients, colleagues, and industry partners. They highlighted Mr. Damen’s achievements, integrity, approachability, and dedication to collaboration. The video concluded with CEO Arnout Damen expressing pride in upholding these values.
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Source: DamenShipyardsGroup
