"We are very pleased by this contract as it confirms our strategy to offer state of the art offshore vessels from our new yard in Vietnam to meet the increased demand in the Asian offshore market" says Roy Reite, President Offshore & Specialized Vessels in Aker Yards. "This contract is ideal to chase learning curve and develop the yard going forward."
"Being able to create new business with Aker after leaving the Aker group confirms the strong business potential between our companies regardless of ownership" says Reite.
The vessels are Anchor Handling Supply Vessels, based on the Aker Yards design AH 08. The first delivery is scheduled in 2010, and the sixth in 2012, final delivery date to be confirmed and adjusted according to the construction of the new shipyard in Vietnam. There is also agreed an option with the potential to build another six vessels.
Environmentally friendly technology with focus on low fuel consumption and meeting the Clean Design standard are key characteristics. The vessels will have a bollard pull in excess of 145 tons, and will be outfitted with a winch of 350 tons.