Saipem to build deepwater FDS

Milan-based Saipem SpA will build a new deepwater field development ship (FDS)to be named ‘Saipem FDS 2?, at an overall cost of 380 million euros. The order with the shipyard is expected to be signed in the second quarter of next year for delivery in three years time. The new ship will have a maximum length of 175 metres, moulded breadth of 32 metres and moulded depth of 14.5 metres. ?Saipem FDS 2? will be equipped with a cutting-edge DP3 dynamic-positioning system, have a maximum transit speed of 13 knots and be able to accommodate 280 people. The vessel will be equipped with a vertical J-lay tower with a maximum capacity of 1,500 tons designed to J-lay sealines of up to 36″ diameter, in water depths of up to 3,000 metres. It will also be capable of S-laying sealines of the same diameter.