Spanish shipbuilder Freire has won the order for a new oceanographic research vessel for Belgium.
The IMO polar code-compliant vessel will be designed to carry out research and survey tasks in the North Sea and its adjacent sea areas, but also in the Mediterranean and more northern areas.
In addition to providing the ship design, Rolls-Royce will supply the main propulsion system, including side thrusters, Promas integrated propulsion and manoeuvring system, power electric system, and steering gear.
The project team responsible for the new research vessel is formed by the Belgian Defence, the Belgian Science Policy Office (BELSPO), and the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences – Operational Directorate Natural Environment (RBINS-OD Nature).
Detailed engineering and construction will take place at Freire's shipyard in Vigo, Spain. The vessel is scheduled for delivery towards the end of 2020.