OMS Group, a provider of subsea digital infrastructure solutions, has contracted Royal IHC for a series of next generation cable-laying vessels. The first vessel is expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2027.
OMS Group‘s strategic investment in the new vessels will enhance its ability to serve rising telecommunications demands and deliver resilient global connectivity. Upon completion, the vessels will help address the urgent and growing need for modern, efficient solutions to keep pace with the rising demands of global connectivity. The vessels are designed with sustainability in mind.
Neither OMS Group nor the Dutch shipbuilder have revealed how many vessels are expected to be in the series or any financial details regarding the order. IHC has yards in the Netherlands and cooperates with foreign yards for the construction of dredgers. IHC has not stated where it plans to build the cable-layers.
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Vessel features
Features of the first vessel, due to be completed in the first quarter of 2027, include:
- Length x breadth: 130 x 22 metres
- AUT-IMS certified vessel class: Meets high standards for automation, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency.
- Cable tank capacity: Approximately 6500 tonnes
- Plough capability: 3.3-metre burial depth with jetting capability and bollard pull of over 100 tonnes
- Energy Storage System (ESS): Optimises energy use through advanced storage solutions
- Flexible generator set-up: Allows adaptable energy generation, improving overall efficiency
- Energy-efficient HVAC system: Reduces energy consumption by utilising ENTHALPY wheel
- Optimised hull design: Enhances fuel efficiency and minimises environmental impact
Also read: Royal IHC selects yard in Vietnam to build dredgers
Enhanced operational capabilities
‘We are excited to announce this strategic investment that underscores our commitment to strengthening our capabilities and ambition to be a key global player in the subsea telecommunications industry,’ says Datuk Lim Soon Foo, Founder and Chairman of OMS Group. ‘With the new vessels, we will enhance our operational capabilities to deliver exceptional service to our clients worldwide and better serve the ever-growing demand for global telecommunication connectivity.’
Bert Jan ter Riet, COO of Royal IHC, states: ‘As global demand for subsea digital infrastructure grows, we are honoured to support industry leader OMS Group with cutting-edge cable lay vessels and equipment. Subsea cable installation is an important element of our wide range of maritime solutions. We are excited to provide innovative technologies that empower OMS Group to build and maintain the critical infrastructure for a connected world, while ensuring top performance and dependability.’
Allan Cairns, General Manager Royal IHC Offshore Energy, adds: ‘This collaboration leverages Royal IHC’s experience with advanced technologies and stringent safety regulations, ensuring the new vessel and cable-lay system meet the demanding specifications required for efficient and reliable subsea cable operations.’
Pictures by Royal IHC.
