Hidden in Plain Sight: The Impact of the Danes on Shaping a Way Ahead with Innovative Shipbuilding
Whether it comes to designing a new ship for the Royal Navy or the next generation modular ship for its own forces, or for designing a new type of support/assault ship for Singapore, the Danes are to be found re-shaping ship design and ship building.
Sort of a 21st century version of the Peter Sellers movie of the Mouse that Roared.
Now they are working with the Lithuanians to design a new ship for Baltic defense.
According to a recent press release: “Lithuanian Maritime Cluster and OSK Design join forces to Advance Maritime Security in the Baltic Region
“Lithuanian Maritime Cluster and OSK Design are proud to announce a significant collaboration that marks a milestone in the maritime industry within the Baltic region. This strategic partnership aims to deliver custom-design of patrol vessels tailored to meet the specific needs of the Lithuanian Navy.”
The press release goes on to say the following:
“Nearly one year ago, the Lithuanian Navy and Lithuanian maritime business community officially declared their ambition to create a conceptual design of a new generation Navy warship. On Ferbruary 15, 2023, a cooperation agreement for the implementation of this innovative technology project was signed in Klaipėda seaport.
“The newly established consortium, comprising Western Baltic Engineering – a member of the Lithuanian Maritime Cluster – and OSK Design, will focus on providing tailored solutions, thus giving a significant boost to this already ongoing project.
“Western Baltic Engineering and OSK Design have come together to develop state-of-the-art patrol vessels. The parties of the consortium view it as not only relevant and essential for Lithuania but also as a collaborative effort that extends to neighbouring countries, fostering active cooperation with clusters in Latvia and Estonia to enhance maritime security and sovereignty in the NATO countries bordering the Baltic Sea.
“According to the partners, a strong maritime industry with several building and repair yards, along with competence and experience within the Baltic region, provides a solid foundation for the project’s successful implementation. Emphasising maximum local production in collaboration with maritime clusters in the three countries, the partnership seeks to engage local naval designers, engineering talent and labour throughout the process, from construction to outfitting and equipping, thereby promoting economic growth and job creation across the Baltic region.
“Marius Arkušauskas, Director of Western Baltic Engineering and Jacob Thygesen, CEO of OSK Design, jointly state: “We are proud to offer our expertise and resources to Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia. We believe that the design and capabilities of our multipurpose ships will meet their maritime needs now and in the future.”
“This partnership between WBE and OSK Design represents a significant milestone in the Baltic shipbuilding industry and a commitment to strengthen collaboration among the Baltic countries, ensuring a safer and more proactive maritime future.”