During the international NATO exercise Atlantic Alliance 2025, HNLMS Johan de Witt received a remarkable visit. For the first time in ten years, a US V-22 Osprey landed on the deck of the naval vessel, followed by a CH-53E Super Stallion — one of the heaviest transport helicopters in the world.
These landings were more than just impressive visuals; they highlighted the critical importance of a reliable, durable ship deck. Scenarios like these were precisely what informed the choices made during the Mid-Life Upgrade of HNLMS Johan de Witt, carried out by Damen Naval in collaboration with Bolidt.
HNLMS Johan de Witt is built for intensive operational use, with capacity for 600 marines and regular flight deck operations involving aircraft up to 30 tons. As part of the upgrade, the entire exterior deck was fitted with a new Bolideck® B3 system, engineered to withstand extreme mechanical and thermal loads, including jet engines producing temperatures of up to 600°C.
Specialized solutions were also implemented inside the ship, where our Bolideck® systems were installed. Specifically developed for maritime and naval applications, this flooring combines anti-slip properties, chemical resistance, and long-term durability in high-load zones.
The fact that HNLMS Johan de Witt can support these heavy helicopter operations without issue is a tangible example of how technical innovation, maritime and naval operational expertise come together in our solutions. At Bolidt, operational readiness is always the priority whether for day-to-day duties or international missions.
P.O. Box 131
3340 AC Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht
The Netherlands
Bolidt Innovation Center
Noordeinde 2
Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht
3341 LW The Netherlands
TEL +31 (0)78 684 54 44
EMAIL website@bolidt.nl