Serco teams up with Damen to deliver 24 vessels for Royal Navy

September 9, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić

Damen Shipyards Group has signed a contract with Serco for the delivery of 24 vessels of various types for the Royal Navy.

As disclosed, Serco will be the prime contractor, with Damen serving as the subcontractor. Serco has recently been awarded a ten-year contract with the Royal Navy to provide maritime services at His Majesty’s Naval Bases Clyde, Devonport, and Portsmouth under the Defence Maritime Service Next Generation (DMS NG) Vessel Replacement Project (VRP).

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As part of the agreement, the companies will support the Royal Navy’s vessel replacement program (VRP).

The contract for 24 Damen vessels includes a wide range of ship types, including ASD tugs, RSD tugs, pilot boats, barges and crane barges. The vessels will support the modernization of the navy’s auxiliary fleet, replacing ageing vessels currently in operation.

“We are delighted to be awarded this significant contract by Serco. This confirms the suitability and capabilities of all parties involved… On behalf of Damen, I look forward to the extensive collaboration in the building and delivery of these 24 vessels,” Damen Sales Manager UK and Ireland Frederik van der Linde said.

“Serco is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with the UK Royal Navy and to work alongside Damen once again on this vital programme. The Defence Maritime Services Next Generation Vessel Replacement Project represents a significant step forward in modernising the Ministry of Defence’s auxiliary fleet,” commenting on the contract award, Guy Barker, Serco’s Maritime Services Director, stated.

The delivery of the vessels will commence in 2027 and is scheduled to be completed during 2028.

Serco’s work for the Royal Navy has seen it collaborate with Damen previously. Back in 2007, the two parties signed a contract for the delivery of 29 vessels for the Future Provision of Maritime Services program with a similar scope to the current order.

Since then, Damen and Serco have continued to work together on a number of projects internationally.