Combination tug and dive support for Peruvian Navy

The Peruvian Navy has recently taken delivery of a well-equipped dive support vessel (DSV) from the shipyard Servicios Industriales de la Marina (SIMA). Designed in-house by the shipyard, the new 3,300kW vessel has significant towing capabilities and can act as a salvage tug.

The 32- by 12-metre vessel has a moulded depth of 4.5 metres on a finely-shaped, double chined hull. A four point anchoring system as well as a launch and recovery system for deploying an open diving bell are among the effective salvage and dive-support deck equipment. Accommodation is provided for a crew of 20 with additional space for up to 13 divers.

Propulsion for the powerful tugs is provided by a pair of Cummins QSK60 MCRS main engines each developing 1,650kW at 1,800rpm. The engines turn into a ZF W11200 main gears with 7.286:1 reduction. These turn 91.25-inch, four-blade Kaplan type propellers in nozzles mounted on 8.5-inch diameter shafts. This combination gives the tug a hefty 52-tonne bollard pull as well as a free running speed of 12 knots.

Delivered by the shipyard in December of 2016, the combined tug, salvage and diving support vessel, named BAP Moralesm, is a welcome addition to the Salvage Group of the Peruvian Navy.