About Us
Defense Maritime Solutions (DMS) is a wholly owned subsidiary of global marine and energy system leader, Wärtsilä. We specialize in the integration and lifecycle sustainment of power, propulsion, and maneuvering systems for U.S. government vessels. Our commitment extends beyond the initial design configuration and system integration phase, as we provide comprehensive support throughout the entire design, build and service lifecycle of the vessels. This includes the provision of services such as equipment selection, integration and commissioning as well as integrated logistics support for spare parts, maintenance, overhaul and optimization to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
Through innovative engineering solutions, expert project management, and OEM certified service technicians, DMS is ready to support our valued partners around the globe. Strategically located repair and assembly facilities on both coasts are home to highly skilled service and operations teams that are complemented by a global network of affiliates, ensuring readiness to provide support anywhere in the world.
At DMS we are committed to revolutionizing the U.S. defense maritime industry and to be the driving force behind the seamless journey of every vessel. DMS is pioneering a new era of excellence in every aspect of our work, ultimately shaping the future of the industries we serve.
Our Purpose
Enabling National Defense through Innovation in Sustainable Technology and Services.
Our Strategic Priorities
1 Excel in Creating Customer Value
We continuously evolve our understanding of, and responsiveness to, our customers to make them successful.
2 Develop a Culture of DMS Enthusiasts
We attract high performing individuals and inspire diverse teams eager to make a difference.
3 Promote Environmentally Sustainable Solutions
We are conscientious of the impacts that our business has on the environment, and we do our part to minimize these impacts.
4 Maintain and Capture Growth in Strategic Market Segments
We continue to offer cutting-edge technology and services on our strategic market advantages while seeking opportunities for growth and development in new innovative offerings.
5 Continuous Innovation and Improvements
We work to continuously improve our end-to-end business to meet customer expectations of cost, quality, and schedule. We leverage digitalization throughout our value chain.
6 Build the DMS Brand
We build brand awareness of Defense Maritime Solutions brands as an end-to-end solution by building a reputation of providing quality customer value.
The Evolution of DMS
1980 Chesapeake, VA propeller workshop is established.
Lips-Doran Company, a subsidiary of Lips Propeller Works of Drunen, the Netherlands, establishes one of its U.S. manufacturing and service facilities in Chesapeake, VA. The plant served as a production repair facility for propellers and thrusters.
1985 Lips opens a new facility in Seattle, WA.
This facility was designed to support Puget Sound and Inland Waterway. A field service team is also stood up to provide in-situ repairs with specialized mobile equipment.
1999 Lips merges with John Crane adding submarine and surface seals to the portfolio.
John Crane was a pioneer in both commercial and government seals. This merger gained several important brands, notably the Deep Sea Seals mark which is still widely respected in the maritime industry today.
2002 Wärtsilä acquires John Crane Lips.
With offices in Chesapeake and Poulsbo operating under Wärtsilä Lips. This results in engines being added to the portfolio, further expanding the scope and capabilities. Read more about the history of Wärtsilä.
2004 Wärtsilä Lips delivers waterjets and dynamic positioning systems for INLS.
The Improved Lighterage System (INLS) is a sea state three (SS3) capable causeway system used by the US Navy for transferring cargo from sealift ships to shore areas where conventional port facilities may be damaged, inadequate, or nonexistent.
2006 Wärtsilä Lips expands propulsion scope for T-AKE 1: Propellers, shaft lines, seals, bearings, and shaft turning gears.
T-AKE is a dry cargo/ammunition ship, totaling 14 ships. Designed to operate independently for extended periods at sea while providing underway replenishment services, the T-AKE directly contributes to the ability of the Navy to maintain a forward presence.
2008 Wärtsilä Lips changes its name to Wärtsilä Defense Inc.
This name change is sparked by the growth as multiple new ship construction programs are awarded in the marine power segment and the Chesapeake facility doubles in size to make room for additional service capabilities.
2018 WDI is awarded a fully integrated scope including ship design for the T-ATS program.
T-ATS is a multi-mission platform capable of towing heavy ships. It will provide ocean-going tug, salvage, and rescue capabilities to support U.S. Navy fleet.
2019 WDI acquires PAC Marine establishing a permanent workforce in San Diego, CA.
Our CA facility is equipped to support surface propeller repair and pump assembly.
2021 WDI receives an IDIQ contract worth up to $76.28 million for waterjet repair and assembly.
This IDIQ from the Naval Warfare Center is for LCS Independence Class waterjets.
2022 WDI is rebranded to Defense Maritime Solutions.
Due to the growth in capabilities and solutions outside of the Wartsila scope, WDI was rebranded to DMS to showcase this diversity.
2022 DMS begins assembly on T-ATS propulsor equipment.
DMS stands up a Flexible Delivery Center to assemble and test propulsor equipment for new construction projects and overhauls.
2023 DMS adds Diving Services as a part of the field service capabilities.
DMS Diving Services are an expansion of Wartsila Underwater Services.