OVERVIEW: The Zuiderkruis AOR is a single-shaft, diesel-powered fleet replenishment ship.

DETAILS: The Zuiderkruis is an improved Poolster-class AOR, designed as a multi-function support ship for amphibious operations.

The Zuiderkruis has four beam replenishment stations, (2 per side), and one stern replenishment station.  This allows her to replenish four vessels at a time (one on each side, one via the stern station, and one by VERTREP).  Cargo capacity is 6815 tons diesel, 1660 aviation fuel and 290 tons dry stores.

Aviation facilities include a landing spot, and hanger facilities for 2 small (Lynx-sized) helos. Can carry ASW torpedoes and stores to support up to five ASW helos. 

Can carry approximately 150 Marines, allowing it to serve as a provisional transport ship for small amphibious operations. Can carry one small RHIB in davits.

Electronics include Two Decca TM1226C nav radars, the Thales IRSCAN and an ESM system 

Armament includes SGE 30mm Goalkeeper, 2 x 20mm Oerlikon (replaced by 12.7mm MG's) and SRBOC launchers.


SPECIFICATIONS:
Displacement: 17040 tons (full)
Speed: 21 kts (max)
Engineering: 2 Bazan/Burmeister & Wain 16V 40/45 diesels, 24000 hp(m) with 1 shaft LIPS cp prop
Range: 13440 nm @ 20 kts
Endurance:
Complement: 160 crew and plus 20 additional personnel.

NOTES: Dates of Service: 1975-2012.


SOURCES:  Karremann, Jaime. "Zuiderkruis (A832) Bevoorradingsschip Van 1975 T/m 2012." Marineschepen.nl. Accessed May 1, 2022. https://marineschepen.nl/schepen/zuiderkruis.html. ; Pike, John. "HNLMS Amsterdam and HNLMS Zuiderkruis AOR." GlobalSecurity.org. Last modified May 6, 2016. https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/europe/hnlms-aor.htm. ; Prezelin, Bernard. The Naval Institute Guide to Combat Fleets of the World, 1990-1991. US Naval Institute Press, 1990., pg. 383