Aker to build AHTSs in Vietnam

Shipbuilding group Aker Yards has signed a contract to build six 3,000 DWT anchor handling towage supply vessels (AHTS) at its new shipyard in Vietnam. The contract with Aker Capital was worth some $251 million.

“We are very pleased by this contract as it confirms our strategy to offer state of the art offshore vessels from our new yard in Vietnam to meet the increased demand in the Asian offshore market” says Roy Reite, President Offshore & Specialized Vessels in Aker Yards. “This contract is ideal to start the learning curve and develop the yard going forward.”

The 74.70 metre long, 17.40 metre wide vessels are based on the Aker Yards design AH 08 with the first delivery scheduled in 2010, and the sixth in 2012. Final delivery date to be confirmed and adjusted according to the construction of the new shipyard in Vietnam. There is also an option for another six vessels.

Environmentally friendly technology with focus on low fuel consumption and meeting the Clean Design standard are key characteristics. The vessels will have a bollard pull in excess of 145 tons, and will be outfitted with a winch of 350 tons.