Pella Shipyard launches Belukha-series tugboat for Russian Navy

Leningrad region, Russia based Pella Shipyard has launched serial tugboat of Belukha 16609 series, the shipbuilder said in a press release.

The tug is scheduled for delivery in 2014 and will enter service with the Russian Baltic Fleet.

The tugboat is intended for towing and dockside operations in harbor, at offshore locations and in coastal areas with designated R2 navigation area (not exceeding 100 miles offshore), for escort of ships at the speed of 10 knots, for refloating of vessels, for fighting fires at floating and shore facilities, for oil spill response, for cargo transport, ice breaking and to assist rescue and special operations.

Ship's general characteristics: LOA – 28.5 m, breadth overall – 9.5 m, draft – 4.3 m, operational speed – nearly 12 knots, RS class notation - KM Arc4 R2 Аut1 FF3 WS Tug.

SC Pella Shipyard based in Russia’s Leningrad region was founded in 1950. In 1992 Pella was privatized as Pella Holding Co. comprising the head office and several subsidiaries. The shipbuilding firm specializes in building tractor tugs with rated power of 1,000hp to 5,000hp, push boats, escort tugs, pilot boats and SAR boats for Russian customers and for foreign customers.