First of 14 ASD Tugs launched at Damen Shipyards Galati
(GALATI, Romania) — The Kuwait Oil Co.’s (KOC) new ASD tug 3212 was launched end of March at Damen Shipyards Galati, Romania. The ceremony marks the first in a 14-terminal tug contract between the two companies whose working relationship spans more than 25 years.
This substantial contract consists of two vessel types, representing Damen’s newest as well as their most established tug design. In detail, the contract comprises nine units based on successful Damen ASD 3212 model, providing 80t bollard pull, and 5 examples of the trusted ASD 2810 design, providing 50t bollard pull. The new tugs will be assisting tankers at near shore loading terminals and at the new single point moorings further offshore. As such, they will also be equipped with powerful FiFi systems.
The cooperation between KOC and Damen dates back a quarter of a century, when Damen delivered several fast crew vessels and the large FiFi and terminal tug, Sabahi, to KOC. In the early nineties, Damen was contracted to construct a complete new fleet of tugs, crew tenders, work boats and mooring boats for KOC. In the years since, Damen has also provided KOC with comprehensive technical services, spare parts, and maintenance assistance.
The contract to design, construct and deliver the series of tugs for KOC awarded to Damen back in September 2012. All vessels are to be constructed by Damen Shipyards Galati. Mr. Sami Al-Sawagh, Team Leader Marine Maintenance in Marine Operations Group, attended the launching ceremony on behalf of KOC.
Damen Shipyards Group
Damen Shipyards Group operates 40 shipyards and repair yards, employing 8.000 people worldwide. Damen has delivered more than 5.000 vessels in more than 100 countries and delivers approx. 180 vessels annually to customers worldwide. Based on its unique, standardised ship-design concept Damen is able to guarantee consistent quality.
Damen’s focus on standardisation, modular construction and keeping vessels in stock leads to short delivery times, low ‘total cost of ownership’, high resale value and reliable performance. Furthermore, Damen vessels are based on thorough R&D and proven technology.
Damen offers a wide range of products, including: tugs, workboats, naval and patrol vessels, high speed craft, cargo vessels, dredgers, vessels for the offshore industry, ferries, pontoons and super yachts.
For nearly all vessel types Damen offers a broad range of Services, such as maintenance, spare parts delivery, training and transfer of (shipbuilding) know-how. To complete, Damen offers a variety of marine components, especially nozzles, rudders, anchors, anchor chains and steel works.
Damen Shiprepair & Conversion
In addition to ship design and shipbuilding, Damen Shiprepair & Conversion offers a network of 16 repair & conversion yards worldwide, with dry docks ranging up to 420×80 metres. Conversion projects range from adapting vessels to today’s requirements and regulations to the complete conversion of large offshore structures. DS&C handles 1,500 repair and maintenance jobs annually.
