VESSEL REVIEW | Wanshan – Chinese-built command vessel to support testing of unmanned craft

The Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai) (SML Zhuhai) of China has taken delivery of a new support vessel built by compatriot shipyard Zhuhai Plandi Shipbuilding Engineering to a design by Wuhan Ship Design and Research Institute.

Wanshan will serve as a command and control platform for monitoring vessel traffic in support of the testing and development of unmanned craft. Its area of operations will encompass the Wanshan Islands Unmanned Vessel Marine Test Site, where unmanned vessels undergo trial sailings for their remote operation, autonomous perception, and collision avoidance systems to be thoroughly assessed.

The newbuild has an aluminium hull, an LOA of 31.75 metres, a beam of 6.8 metres, a design draught of only 1.23 metres, and a depth of 3.1 metres. A propulsion system consisting of three main engines with a total installed power of 3,804 kW drives waterjets to deliver a maximum speed of over 36 knots. The vessel's V-shaped hull form was developed to ensure enhanced manoeuvrability and seakeeping as well as improved wind and wave resistance, especially when the installed anti-sway gyroscope and adjustable spoilers are also activated.

An advanced and intelligent integrated command system enables the crew to monitor the vessel's systems more efficiently.

The interiors boast an ergonomic lay-out as well as noise- and vibration-reducing features. Accommodation spaces include a conference room and a lounge.

Development work on Wanshan was done in compliance to China Classification Society requirements.