The U.K. has actually granted Babcock International’s Rosyth shipyard a ₤ 45 million (approx. US$ 56.6 million) agreement to preserve its fleet of 3 clinical study vessels.
The preliminary three-year agreement, introduced by U.K. Industry and also Maritime Minister Nusrat Ghani previously this month, will certainly see the huge oceanographic and also polar study vessels RRS Sir David Attenborough, RRS Discovery and also RRS James Cook dock at Babcock’s advanced centers in Rosyth, Scotland, for set upkeep and also upgrade job. The offer consists of a choice for an extra 2 years.
Babcock Rosyth holds a variety of significant construct and also upkeep agreements, consisting of the Type 31 frigate newbuild program in addition to upkeep, repair services and also upgrades for the U.K. Royal Navy’s warship.
David Lockwood, Babcock chief executive officer stated, “We are delighted to have been awarded the contract to maintain this important NERC fleet.
“Our adaptable and also reliable service will certainly guarantee the fleet is preserved to extraordinary requirements and also maximize vessel schedule on behalf of NERC’s international impact.”
The RRS Sir David Attenborough is operated by the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and is one of the world’s most advanced polar research vessels, having departed the U.K. for its maiden voyage in November 2021.
The 2013-built RRS Discovery and 2006-built RRS James Cook are operated by the National Oceanography Centre (NOC). They conduct oceanic exploration around the world, undertaking multi-disciplinary marine science to unlock the mysteries of the deep ocean.
All three vessels use state-of-the-art technologies such as autonomous underwater vehicles, including the famous NOC Autosub called Boaty McBoatface.
Professor Sir Duncan Wingham, Executive Chair of NERC, part of UK Research and Innovation, said, “The U.K.’s fleet of innovative study ships supplies advanced centers for researchers to perform study of our seas and also polar areas, constructing our understanding of the ice, environment and also seas.
“We look forward to working with Babcock Rosyth to maintain these ships and onboard facilities, which are a key part of the U.K.’s scientific infrastructure.”
