Command, Logistic Support & Transport (CLST-H)
The Belgian Navy's Command, Logistic Support & Transport (CLST-H) is a new command & support ship. The new command, support and transport ship, scheduled to replace BNS Zinnia, must be able to conduct a broad spectrum of tasks both regional and global tasks. This new ship will provide us with the necessary assets for the transport of the rolling material of an army battalion and to support them from the sea. Requirements for the new transport ship include medical facilities, provide command facilities and conduct helicopter operations.
A number of options to acquire a multi-role, helicopter capable, transport ship is under consideration. Of particular importance in joint operations is the transportation of the rolling material of an army battalion across the sea and the capability to support them ashore. The new type must be able to operate in a national or multinational environment with a flexible approach for troops and vehicles to be embarked.
Recent operational experiences showed the need for military sealift transport in order to quickly move intervention forces, including out-of-area. The Government acknowledged the need for such a military sealift and afloat logistics capability. A common operational concept study, which looks for possible synergies in the requirements of each service, is currently running within the Belgian Armed Forces.
The ship should be capable of operating as a transport ship for army vehicles and equipment, with a capacity of loading and fast and autonomous unloading and be suited to cover command & control functions in the framework of both national and international missions.
The employment spectrum would encompass also tasks like: underway replenishment and logistic support for operations; at sea and offshore Command & Control; and primary casualty receiving ship (PCRS) with sufficient medical facilities. The ship would support peacekeeping and –enforcing operations and humanitarian operations, and conduct training for the navy and merchant marine cadets.
