Kongsberg Maritime has secured a contract with Integrated Wind Solutions (IWS) for equipment packages for two construction service operation vessels (CSOVs) for delivery in the first half of 2024.
IWS already has the two identical vessels on order for delivery in 2023 and option agreements for up to two additional ships, making this a potential six-vessel series.
The fleet has been designed specifically for the renewable offshore wind market, with a clear focus on reduced emissions and enhanced sustainability.
The vessels will be built to Kongsberg Maritime’s UT 5519 DE design by the shipyard China Merchant Heavy Industries.
The UT 5519 DE has a novel double-ended hull form and propulsion set-up, incorporating results from research and development projects as well as operational experience from Kongsberg Maritime’s wind farm service vessel designs to minimise emissions and maximise manoeuvrability and efficiency.
IWS chief executive Lars-Henrik Roren said: “We see increased interest in our vessels and the integrated services that IWS provides, as demonstrated by our charter contracts with Dogger Bank offshore wind farm.”
IWS chief operating officer Andersen Heidenreich said: “We are very pleased to strengthen and build upon our relationship with Kongsberg both through the design and development phase and in the future, as we look forward to continuing to work together to ensure that our vessels operate as sustainably, humanely and efficiently as possible.”
Kongsberg Maritime president Egil Haugsdal said: “IWS’s determination to promote humane, environmentally-friendly, safe and efficient offshore operations is entirely consistent with Kongsberg’s mission to incorporate sustainability in everything we do.
“This fleet of important and highly innovative vessels will set a new benchmark for CSOVs, further reinforcing Kongsberg Maritime’s market position in the growing renewable energy segment.”