Recently, the Indian state-owned shipyard Cochin Shipyard held a steel cutting ceremony for the second service operation vessel (SOV) built for British shipowner North Star. It is expected to be delivered and put into operation in 2026, when it will provide services to Siemens Gamesa.
Designed by Vard, this SOV is 86 meters long and can accommodate up to 80 skilled workers and crew members. It is equipped with a DP2 system and a diesel-electric hybrid propulsion unit consisting of a Yanmar generator and lithium-ion batteries. It will be installed with SMST’s walking operation system and can serve as a logistics hub and warehouse.
In addition, the vessel will feature an advanced electrical system that combines a DC switchboard with an energy storage system.Vard says this integration will simplify the utilization of energy on board and optimize the distribution system, thereby improving overall efficiency in all modes of operation.