Birdon America, Inc. has announced the successful progression of its contract to deliver Bridge Erection Boats (BEBs) to the Netherlands Army. Six Birdon BEBs are in the final stages of assembly, with delivery scheduled for the end of September 2024. This marks the first delivery tranche of a larger contract awarded in 2023 to General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) for three sets of Wide Gap Crossing systems. These systems are composed of the Improved Ribbon Bridge (IRB), Bridge Adapter Pallets (BAP), and the Birdon BEBs. The remaining two tranches are slated for completion in 2024-2025.
“We’re proud to supply the BEB as an essential force multiplier for the Netherlands Army,” stated BEB Program Manager Jim Ducker. “These vessels play a pivotal role in enabling vitally important wet gap crossings, and this first delivery indicates contract completion is progressing in a timely manner.”
Beyond the delivery of the first tranche, the comprehensive Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) package, which includes technical manuals and training programs, is nearing completion. Birdon will utilize this package to conduct training for the Netherlands Armed Forces on the safe and effective operation of the BEBs. This training is scheduled to commence in the Netherlands during the first quarter of 2025.
In preparation for the upcoming delivery, Birdon hosted a meeting in July with representatives from the Netherlands Army’s Contract and Program team and the GDELS Program Management team. This meeting served to verify the progress of the boats currently in production and finalize the quality inspection and delivery process. As part of the meeting, Birdon also conducted a sea trial on the first boat, hull number 007.
Birdon has established a strong track record in designing and manufacturing BEBs for the Australian, Brazilian, and U.S. Armies. Globally, the company has delivered 462 BEBs, with the majority manufactured at its production facility in northeast Denver. The Netherlands BEBs, also being produced in Denver, will incorporate enhanced capabilities to improve operations and further ruggedize the BEB. These upgrades include an icebreaker bow, a new quick release launch capability, an electric winch, and reduced maintenance and downtime for maximized operational availability.
In its primary mission mode, the BEB provides propulsion, thrust, and stabilization to support tactical float bridging and rafting operations worldwide. The design specifically caters to providing high thrust and operating in high particulate matter environments, including fresh, brackish, and seawater. The unique and flexible design of the BEB allows for integration with most customer-specific transport systems. Birdon has also developed a next-generation control system capable of remote and autonomous operations. The Netherlands BEBs will feature updated systems that facilitate seamless integration for developing technologies.
Established in 1977, Birdon is a seasoned defense prime contractor delivering specialized maritime solutions. The company is a trusted partner of the Australian Defense Force, Brazilian Army, and the U.S. Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security. Birdon is successfully fulfilling major projects for the Australian Navy, Australian Army, U.S. Army, U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Navy.
