Ultra Deep Solutions (UDS) has announced a contract to build a multi-purpose diving support construction vessel (DSCV).
China-based shipbuilding company Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC) will construct the newbuilding, and the contract has an option for a second vessel.
Based on the proprietary Red Class 6027 MT design of DSCV, the 142-metre x 27-metre vessel will be rated for DP3 dynamic positioning and will come equipped with Unique Hydra's 18-man twin bell saturation dive system.
Designed to operate in depths of up to 4,000 metres, the vessel concept was developed in collaboration with Norwegian design firm Marin Teknikk and will be constructed under survey to DNV.
Other features of the vessel include a reinforced moon pool area for deployment of two remote-operated vehicles, a 400-tonne Huisman crane, and 1,500m² of open deck space.
Able to accommodate up to 140 personnel, the vessel's trial speed will be 14 knots.
The contract is valued at approximately US$200 million per vessel, with delivery of the first vessel planned for early 2017.