Nexans Boosts Cable Laying Fleet with High Capacity Newbuild

Nexans has announced the start of construction of a new cable-laying vessel for submarine high voltage (HV) cable systems installation.

Being built by Uljanik Group, a Croatia-based shipyard, the high capacity Nexans vessel is designed for worldwide installation of large volumes of HVDC and HVAC cable systems, even in the most severe weather conditions, the company said.

The vessel covers the complete Nexans submarine product range, and has a 10 000-tonne capacity turntable.

“The construction of this new cable-laying vessel is a fundamental milestone in our commitment to cleaner energy,“ said Arnaud Poupart-Lafarge, Nexans CEO.

“In this next exciting chapter of our capacity to meet customer expectations, the cutting-edge technology of the new ship will enable Nexans to support countries in their development of the unlimited potential of renewable power generation”.

The new ship, designed by consulting agency Skipsteknisk AS, comes with Dynamic Positioning (IMO class 3) capabilities. The laying equipment allows the vessel to perform complex installation operations of flexible products in shallow to deep water.

“Together with our legendary vessel CLV Nexans Skagerrak, the new ship will reinforce Nexans’ position as a leading player in the growing submarine HV cabling market,” said Dirk Steinbrink, Senior Executive Vice President High Voltage and Underwater Cable Business Group at Nexans.

“With the advanced technology, impressive capacity and the many cable-laying capabilities, this vessel will be one of Nexans’ key strategic assets”.

The new cable-laying vessel is expected to be delivered and start operations by the third quarter of 2020.