Damen Launches Second CSOV 9020 for TSSM Fleet

Second Vessel in Series Launched

Damen Shipyards Group has launched the second of two Commissioning Service Operations Vessels (CSOV) 9020 built for Ta San Shang Marine Co., Ltd. (TSSM), according to a report by The Maritime Executive. TSSM is a joint venture between Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. of Japan and Ta Tong Marine Co., Ltd. of Taiwan, formed to support offshore wind farm construction and maintenance in Taiwanese waters.

The new vessel, to be named TSS Challenger, is scheduled for delivery in early 2027, joining the previously delivered Damen-built TSS Cruiser in the fleet. Construction is taking place at Damen’s yard in Ha Long, Vietnam.

Design Built for Offshore Conditions

The CSOV 9020 is designed to meet the demands of offshore energy operations, with a hull form intended to deliver strong sea-keeping and stability for the comfort of up to 120 personnel on board. Crew and technicians are housed in hotel-class cabins and transfer to offshore structures via a motion-compensated walkway. The vessel also offers storage capacity for equipment and supplies needed to support operations across the lifecycle of offshore energy installations.

Efficiency and Fuel Flexibility

Damen states that the vessel’s optimised hull reduces fuel consumption, and this is paired with a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system to lower emissions. The CSOV 9020 is also prepared for future operation on green methanol, allowing for a transition to alternative fuel as it becomes available.

Tailored for the Asian Market

Thomas Röwekamp, Regional Sales Director Asia-Pacific at Damen, said the milestone reflects years of experience gained in the European offshore wind sector, adapted for conditions in Asia. “The capabilities of the vessel have been tailored and fine-tuned to support the rapid development of the Asian market,” he said, adding that the vessels are positioned to support TSSM and its clients in building a regional energy sector in the coming years.

Apeks view — A newbuild CSOV like this represents a long-lived asset, and its value to owners and offshore wind operators will hinge on how well its condition, maintenance, and modifications are documented across decades of service and multiple operators. Fuel-flexible propulsion and methanol-readiness are engineering commitments that must be verifiable over time, not just launch-day claims. Structured, evidence-based records built from day one make future surveys, resale, and lifecycle decisions far more defensible than paper trails assembled after the fact.