Dutch 2012-built offshore support vessel getting ready for first UXO identification job

The 4-Winds offshore support vessel that recently commenced a long-term charter with Netherlands-headquartered N-Sea is getting ready for its first unexploded ordnance (UXO) identification job.

N-Sea reported in November 2023 that it was strengthening its fleet and subsea activities by entering into an agreement with Rederij Groen for the long-term charter of the Dutch-flagged 2012-built offshore support vessel.

According to the Dutch company, 4-Winds, painted in new colors, is currently being outfitted in IJmuiden to get ready for its first UXO identification job. UXO identification works are lined up for the vessel in the coming months, followed by the relevant clearance campaigns.

4-winds is 60.25 meters long, has a 14.95-meter beam and a draught of 5 meters. It is dedicated to performing survey and other subsea tasks in the North Sea.

The vessel is equipped with a 100 hp Triton XL work-class remotely operated vehicle (WROV) outfitted with TSS 440, MBES, Orphie cam & Dredge Pump, all installed on a raised deck.

The fully overhauled WROV vehicle and TMS system are being operated through a completely rejuvenated control system by Vocean and are launched by a fully overhauled launch and recovery system (LARS) which comes with active heavy compensation by Scantrol.