The Colombian shipbuilding industry takes a new step towards specialization with the alliance between Damen Naval and Georg Fischer LATAM. Within the framework of the Strategic Surface Project (PES), the renowned Swiss firm has been contracted to supply plastic piping solutions and lead technical training programs at the COTECMAR shipyard.
PES project: strategic supply for SIGMA frigate
As part of the construction of a Damen SIGMA frigate in Cartagena, Georg Fischer LATAM will supply the entire plastic piping system. This supply includes specialized tooling and technical assistance that will be essential during the various phases of the naval assembly.
The signed contract also contemplates a key stage: the transfer of knowledge. Jesús López Ribón, Georg Fischer’s business development manager, will be in charge of training sessions for COTECMAR’s technical staff. This collaboration seeks to strengthen local competencies and ensure that international quality standards are sustained in the long term.
Double impact: technical support and local content
Damen Naval has reiterated its commitment to developing local content by selecting regional suppliers such as Georg Fischer. Roxanne Bartelse, the company’s tactical buyer, highlighted the value of incorporating partners with on-the-ground experience. The company also participated in the latest edition of Expodefensa in Bogota, where it explored new opportunities with Colombian suppliers.
Prior to the initial dispatch, Damen Naval and Georg Fischer LATAM representatives conducted a quality inspection at the company’s Swiss headquarters. This technical review ensured compliance with the standards required by the PES project prior to its implementation in Cartagena.
Strategic vision for Latin America
Julio Valls, regional director of Georg Fischer LATAM, stressed that this agreement is an example of how the regional industry can be integrated into large-scale projects. “Contributing to operational efficiency, safety and sustainability in the marine sector is part of our mission in Latin America,” he said.
Likewise, Mark den Boeft, PES manufacturing engineering manager, stressed the importance of having local technical support to ensure effective implementation from day one.
Source and photo: Damen Naval