UK-based underwater systems provider JFD has secured a contract to design and build an advanced deep search and rescue vehicle (DSRV) for the Republic of Korea Navy (RKN).
South Korean shipbuilder Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME) awarded the contract as part of a comprehensive submarine rescue provision.
It is expected to provide an advanced and highly capable submarine search and rescue vehicle to the RKN.
JFD managing director Giovanni Corbetta said: “Protecting the lives of submariners is of utmost importance to JFD, and ensuring our customers have the most advanced and comprehensive submarine rescue capability is fundamental to this.
“The new DSRV will provide an advanced capability to the RKN that will ensure the lives of those operating subsea are protected at all times.”
RKN will launch and recover the DSRV, to be delivered by JFD in 2021, from the submarine rescue vessel via a ‘moonpool’.
The DSRV can be deployed in support of rescuing the crews of distressed submarines at depths of up to 500m, and in waves as tall as 4m.
According to JFD, this method of launch and recovery offers greater chances of a successful submarine rescue operation by minimising the impact of weather and sea states on the ability to operate the DSRV.
Prior to entering into the service, the DSRV will be put through a series of tests and trials including factory, harbour, and sea acceptance trials.
Following the delivery, the company will continue to work with the RKN and its partners in providing a comprehensive training and support programme to support submarine rescue operations.
