Chouest Group acquires UK ROV operator

US-based the Chouest Group has acquired ROVOP, a UK company specialising in the provision of remotely operated vehicle (ROV) services to customers in the energy sector.

ROVOP said the deal will bring greater resources and subsea expertise to the Aberdeen-headquartered business. ROVOP will now benefit from the support and capabilities of other Chouest companies worldwide, including its vessel-based operations, Caltex Oil Tools, Bram Offshore, and C-Innovation, allowing it to offer a greater range of services.

ROVOP was previously backed by specialist energy private equity firm Bluewater before the acquisition by the Chouest Group.

The acquisition means that Chouest, alongside its existing subsea service company C-Innovation, will now own and operate a fleet of over 100 ROVs and six autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).

The integration of ROVOP into Chouest’s operations will begin immediately.