Dutch offshore equipment specialist SMST has secured a contract from Norwegian shipbuilder VARD to supply mission equipment for two additional hybrid-powered Service Operation Vessels (SOVs) being constructed for UK-based vessel operator North Star.
The vessels are being built under a long-term charter agreement with German energy company RWE, and will bring the total number of North Star vessels outfitted with SMST systems to six.
Each vessel will be equipped with SMST’s Telescopic Access Bridge (TAB) L2 — a motion-compensated gangway system designed to safely transfer technicians to offshore wind platforms — as well as a 5-tonne Motion Compensated Crane for cargo handling.
“We are proud to contribute to such a significant collaboration between two leading industry players,” said SMST sales manager Jochem Tuinstra. “Above all, we value the continued partnership with North Star and VARD’s ongoing trust in SMST, now reflected in the selection of our equipment for a fifth and sixth vessel.”
The latest order follows previous deliveries for the Grampian Eagle and Grampian Kestrel, both part of North Star’s offshore wind support fleet.
James Bradford, chief technology officer at North Star, said the company views SMST as a key technology partner. “Delivering world-class operational performance remains our top priority, and we consider SMST a valuable technology partner in achieving this goal, thanks to their innovative and reliable offshore equipment,” he said. “We are therefore pleased to extend our partnership for the next two hybrid-powered Service Operation Vessels.”
The equipment is expected to enhance safety and efficiency across North Star’s expanding SOV fleet, which supports offshore wind operations for RWE.
