Denmark launches RFI for new surveillance vessels

Denmark is looking to procure new vessels for its Navy Home Guard, replacing the current “800 and 850 class platforms”.  

According to a request for information (RFI) published on the EU’s Tenders Electronic Daily on 30 March, the vessels will primarily be used for maritime surveillance to protect Danish sovereignty.  

Up to 21 units will be acquired, pending the results of the RFI, which aims to assess current industry capabilities and identify future suppliers. 

It also aims to help Denmark’s defence ministry evaluate the schedule, construction strategy and costs related to the acquisition. 

Design specifications: 

The RFI specifically outlines a requirement for a new vessel that will be used for shadowing and escorting other vessels in unprotected, open waters.  

A key design requirement is modularity, ensuring the platforms can accommodate both current and future technologies. This includes sufficient capacity for power, data bandwidth, hydraulics, and deck space.  

Additionally, potential vessel designs should be able to integrate with other systems such as UAS and counter-UAS platforms. 

The vessels will also be used for the protection of critical infrastructure and should be capable of repelling and boarding other platforms.   

Operational requirements: 

According to the notice, the vessels will contribute to the defence of the country by supporting the Danish Naval Command in crisis or wartime scenarios while also carrying out peacetime duties.  

The vessels should be interoperable with other Danish naval units and capable of operating in accordance with NATO standards. 

Vendors must outline their capacity to deliver both the design and construction of the vessels. After receiving responses to the RFI the Danish Ministry of Defence will contact future suppliers.