Damen subsidiary Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding (DSNS) has begun construction on the first SIGMA 10514 PKR frigate for Indonesia's Ministry of Defence, in a steel cutting ceremony that took place simultaneously in Indonesia and the Netherlands in mid-January.
DSNS will build two modules at its Vlissingen site in the Netherlands and subsequently ship them to a yard in Surabaya for assembly. The simultaneous construction and testing of the modules at two different locations heralds a unique modular building strategy for DSNS.
The engineering process for the second frigate is expected to begin in approximately six months.
The acquisition of the SIGMA 10514 PKR frigate is part of a larger modernisation and expansion program by the Indonesian Navy. The main missions and tasks of the SIGMA PKR 10514 will involve maritime security, naval warfare and humanitarian support tasks.
The vessels measure 105 metres in length, with a width of 14 metres and a displacement of 2,400 tonnes. Propulsion is via a combined diesel and electric system and the vessel will accommodate 100 crew with spare accommodation for a further 20.
The vessel will be able to carry a helicopter on deck and its combat system features extensive air, surface and sub-surface surveillance capabilities. Other combat installations will include guided missile systems, anti-air and anti-surface gun systems, anti-submarine torpedoes and a Tacticos combat management system.
