UK-based underwater systems developer JFD has received a “multi-million pound” contract for the design and build of a deep search and rescue vehicle (DSRV) for the Republic of Korea Navy.
The contract for the delivery of a DSRV for the ROK Navy’s new submarine rescue ship was awarded by South Korean shipbuilder Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME).
The RoKN currently operates a multipurpose submarine rescue ship – the 103 m long, 4,300-tonne RoKS Cheonghaejin. Once in operation, the new ASR-II vessel will replace the current Cheonghaejin, in operation since 1996.
The JFD-delivered DSRV will be launched and recovered from the submarine rescue vessel via a ‘moonpool’, through which the DSRV will be deployed to rescue the crews of distressed submarines at depths of up to 500m, and in waves as tall as four meters.
This method of launch and recovery minimizes the impact of weather and sea states on the ability to operate the DSRV, maximizing the chances of a successful submarine rescue operation, further safeguarding the lives of submariners.
Due to be delivered to the customer in 2021, the DSRV will undergo a comprehensive series of tests and trials including factory, harbor, and sea acceptance trials, before entering operational service.
“JFD first delivered a deep search and rescue system to the South Korean navy in 2009,” James Fisher and Sons CEO Nick Henry, said. “This additional capability further demonstrates our position of market leadership in the submarine rescue market, as well as the strong relationships that we build with our customers.
“The vehicle is a variation of the landmark third-generation vehicles recently delivered to the Indian Navy.”