A series of special modular support vessels for operators in the offshore industries is being built by IHC Merwede, the Netherlands dredging and offshore specialists.
Known as the IHC SupporterTM class, the ships are part of a six-year joint industry framework project between IHC and Lloyd’s Register. Each vessel will be built to client specifications with IHC using manual and on-screen configurators to guide companies through the design process. The first two vessels are due to be delivered in 2014.
Apart from cable-laying inspection and diving support, one of the key growth areas IHC is targeting is offshore wind farm technology, using support vessels to give base camp support in the field and inspection repair and maintenance work on subsea construction and grids.
Koos Roobol , LR’s Rotterdam Marine Business Development Manager , commented: “This is a key contract for LR which will help to grow our business in the offshore support vessel market and support our marine market focus for the floating offshore installations sector.”
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Press release, September 4, 2012; Image: Lloyd’s Register