US firm unveils Australian research vessel concept design

US marine engineering firm Glosten has unveiled a concept design for a new research vessel for the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI).

The vessel will be used in the protection and management of local marine ecosystems.

Development of the new SARDI vessel is funded by the Australian National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy.

Glosten said it has been working closely with SARDI to refine the vessel's capabilities and eventually developed a design that best fits the latter's operational requirements for a 30- to 37-metre-long monohull with extended range, a launch and recovery system, the ability to perform fisheries research, and a multi-mission-friendly layout.

As the owner had also requested for a vessel that can operate cleanly and quietly, Glosten selected a diesel-electric power plant that will allow both hybrid and battery-only operations.

The new vessel will replace the older vessel Ngerin and will support SARDI's work of promoting sustainable management of marine resources and protecting aquatic ecosystems in South Australia.