NAVAL TENDER VESSEL 130 (NTV 130)
Modern design for versatile marine operations
The Naval Tender Vessel 130 (NTV 130) is an outstanding example of modern shipbuilding design, developed by NVL on the basis of NATO capability codes and in accordance with the strict construction regulations of the German Navy. As a versatile support and mother ship, the NTV 130 meets the most demanding requirements for naval operations in the North Atlantic and Arctic waters.
With an advanced energy supply concept, optimised resilience and comprehensive protection mechanisms, the NTV 130 offers an unrivalled capability to supply and support naval units. Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, including helicopter and UAV operational capabilities, it is an indispensable part of any naval operational fleet.
The design has been specifically engineered to operate safely and efficiently in extreme weather and threat conditions, such as those found in the North Atlantic or the North and Baltic Seas. With modular systems and high compatibility, the NTV 130 fulfils a variety of roles, including support for mine countermeasure vessels, submarines and amphibious operations.
Robust and versatile – The weather deck of the NTV 130
The weather deck of the NTV 130 is a true all-rounder, designed to accommodate heavy loads and support modular deployments. The structured landing area offers sufficient space for heavy-transport helicopters such as the CH-47F Chinook, which can operate safely with a maximum take-off mass of up to 22.5 tonnes. This deck is not only optimised for helicopter operations – it also offers slots for containers and, with an innovative skidding system, enables the flexible expansion of the ship’s capabilities with containerised deployment systems.
The connection between the weather deck and the lower decks is ensured by an integrated lift, which enables the seamless and efficient handling of equipment and material. The closed design of the superstructure minimises radar reflections (radar cross section) and, at the same time, offers excellent protection against the harsh weather conditions of the North Sea. In this way, the NTV 130 ensures operational readiness is guaranteed under all circumstances.
Innovative loading and unloading devices for maximum flexibility
The NTV 130 is equipped with state-of-the-art traversing and launching systems designed to maximise deployment flexibility and efficiency. The perspective shown here from one of the tween decks illustrates the robust boat launching system at the stern of the vessel, which is specially designed for the simultaneous operation of up to four boats during ongoing flight operations.
Particularly noteworthy is the innovative traversing system, developed in collaboration with SH Defence, which has been optimised for use with the modular CUBE system.
This system is integrated into all cargo decks as well as the ship’s weather deck and enables seamless movement and positioning of ISO 20-foot containers. The different decks of the vessel are connected by a powerful lift that ensures efficient handling of equipment and material between levels.
In addition, a multifunctional overhead crane on the deck ceiling offers extended lifting options for a wide range of loads, while the stern supply system behind the central bulkhead ensures the smooth operation of supply tasks. This sophisticated combination of modular systems and flexible equipment options makes the NTV 130 an indispensable vessel for a wide range of naval operations.
Efficient roll-on/roll-off capabilities for mechanised units
The NTV 130 is specially designed to transport mechanised special vehicles safely and efficiently. The image shown illustrates the impressive capacity of the vessel’s design to take a complete unit of mechanised vehicles on board via the starboard ramp and stow them optimally using the state-of-the-art traversing system.
This vessel enables the forces of a mechanised unit to be transferred efficiently by distributing the vehicles safely on the loading decks. The integrated lifts ensure the fast and smooth distribution of the vehicles to the various decks.
This highly functional transport capability makes the NTV 130 an indispensable resource for the strategic deployment and supply of ground forces in maritime operations.
Integrated sea supply facility for flexible replenishment operations
The NTV 130 is equipped with a state-of-the-art replenishment at sea (RAS) system that is seamlessly integrated into the ship’s superstructure. This system makes it possible to efficiently supply both liquids and solids via pallets, even under difficult conditions on the high seas. The control centre, which can also be seen in the picture, offers comprehensive control options for the operation of the system – thus guaranteeing the safe and precise execution of replenishment operations.
Two emergency exit hatches are visible in the upper area of the outer hull, which were designed as escape routes from the inside of the ship.
In addition to the extensive sensor system, further cranes are installed on the upper deck, which can be used for loading and moving material. In the lower area, bollards serve as mooring facilities and enable other vessels, such as submarines, to be securely fixed in the package – both at sea and in ports.
These versatile features emphasise the NTV 130’s ability to provide operational flexibility and reliability in complex and challenging environments.
Advanced hull and drive design for challenging deployments
The NTV 130 features a state-of-the-art hull design that has been specially developed for stability and efficiency in difficult sea conditions. The innovative X-bow at the bow tip ensures improved seakeeping, especially in rough seas, by minimising wave impact and increasing the operational safety of the vessel.
A retractable transverse thruster is integrated into the bow area, which significantly improves manoeuvrability in narrow waters. This rudder can be extended and turned in almost any direction if required, which means it can be used not only to assist with manoeuvres but also as an emergency drive for returning safely to port.
The centrally positioned canting keel helps to stabilise the ship by reducing rolling movements, thus ensuring operational capability even in difficult conditions. At the stern is a drive system consisting of a counter-rotating propeller system that increases efficiency and reduces vibrations. This system also supports the safe launching of boats at the stern by minimising the stern wave.
The NTV 130 is also equipped with advanced protection systems that ensure effective defence against air and sea targets. These systems are designed for rapid response and provide the ship with comprehensive self-protection during operations both in combat zones and in calmer waters.
This combination of innovative design solutions and high-performance protection systems makes the NTV 130 an extremely versatile and robust vessel for a wide range of naval deployments.
