Kongsberg signed a contract with the German shipbuilder Fassmer Werft for the delivery of a technical solution for the LNG-powered research vessel, Atair II.
The vessel, being built for the German Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH), will be the world’s first government owned LNG-powered research vessel, and the first newbuild to use Kongsberg’s integrated research vessel concept, according to Kongsberg.
The concept will unite operational hydrographic and energy functions on board.
Kongsberg with its sub-suppliers will provide all electrical systems, telecom systems, propulsion motor, cables and installation as a full engineering, procurement, construction and installation (EPCI) contract.
Atair II will be built at Fassmer Werft in Berne, and is scheduled for delivery in 2020.
It will be the largest vessel in BHS’ fleet, Kongsberg said, adding that it is set to operate in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, conducting hydrographic surveys and search & rescue operations in addition to marine environmental monitoring, as well as the technical testing of navigation and radar equipment.