The following is the text of a news release from Foss Maritime:
(SEATTLE) — Foss Maritime and Netherlands-based Damen Shipyards have signed a memorandum of understanding to produce and market the Damen ASD 2813 tug. The tug design has been modified to meet the unique demands of the U.S. tug assist and escort market. The first four of a series of at least 10 tugs will be constructed at the Foss Rainier, Ore., shipyard, with delivery planned for 2019.
Foss and Damen have a vision of the next generation of ship assist and escort tugs, and by combining Damen’s long history of design and construction experience with Foss’ operational and shipbuilding expertise, this vision will be realized. While Foss will construct the tugs to supplement and enhance their fleet, tugs of this build series will be available for purchase by other U.S. tug operators.
“This partnership supports our shared goals,” said John Parrott, Foss president and CEO. “It means, we can strengthen our fleet while meeting the demands of our customers, and at the same time Damen has the opportunity to market their innovative tug designs in the U.S."
“Working with Foss will enable us to strengthen our relationship while serving the North American market with state-of-the-art, cost-effective and dependable vessels,” said Jan van Hogerwou, Damen’s vice president of new construction, North America. “We’re excited about this collaboration and look forward to working closely with Foss.”
