The paper gives an overview of the project from start till finish. After a brief introduction on how the project was executed, detailed information will be presented on the design philosophy of the ROTTERDAM and the way the project developed in the course of the years from concept design to reality. Finally, the paper deals with the lessons learned so far. Special attention will be paid to the logistic concept which led to the internal arrangement and layout of the ship. In addition, the design of the well dock will be explained, as special features were added to the design to improve operations for landing craft. Extensive model tests were carried out to ensure that the well dock would meet the design criteria. The ROTTERDAM is built mainly according to commercial rules and regulations. The extent to which these regulations were implemented in the design will also be discussed. A brief explanation will be given about the major design decisions. The ROTTERDAM is the first LPD in the world with Diesel-electric propulsion.
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