Timsah’s new multipurpose supply vessel, built for hire, will be equipped with a Saab Seaeye Cougar XTi underwater vehicle as a key onboard resource package.
The A1 class 2,441-ton ship is rated for towing, firefighting and offshore support and includes a helicopter pad and accommodation for 60.
Founded in 1961, shipbuilding and offshore services company Timsah operates globally and in particular throughout the Middle East. The company expects the new vessel to continue to expand its activities and meet future demands.
The Cougar XTi was chosen for its technology and proven capability across the wide range of tasks likely to be encountered by hire operators, said Saab Seaeye’s distributor, Zone Offshore, who will fully support the system.
With six SM7 thrusters, an intelligent iCON control system and rated to 3,000 m (9,842.5 ft), the Cougar is a versatile, proven and reliable concept designed to undertake light work tasks together with observation and survey missions. It can carry a wide variety of sensors, ancillary equipment, tooling and a skid option in a small footprint to save deck space.
Cougar has the power to handle strong currents and the maneuverability to fly inside and around complex structures and undertake precision and robust tasks as needed.
The diagnostic nature of the intuitive iCON control system includes smart fault diagnostics that eliminate the need for the pilot to interpret fault data and will automatically isolate a failed component to keep the vehicle working.
The new full Cougar XTi configuration package includes a tether management system (TMS), an ‘A’ frame launch and recovery system and a 4.8-m (16-ft) purpose-built safe area control cabin.
The system also comes complete with three cameras, including a high-definition CCD monochrome camera, a Kongsberg color zoom camera and a mini camera for the TMS. Also included is a Tritech Super SeaKing sonar, a five-function heavy-duty manipulator and a bare tool skid.
—Joseph Markman
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