CIMC Raffles has signed a newbuild agreement with Van Oord for a second Subsea Rock Installation Vessel (SRI), extending the long-term relationship the two companies renewed in 2021.

The new-generation SRI will be classed by Bureau Veritas and will measure 199 m in overall length with a 32.2 m beam. It will be fitted with DP2 capability and designed to carry up to 35,000 tonnes of rock to support large-scale offshore construction activities.

The vessel’s sustainability package includes multi-fuel engines designed for biofuel and methanol, a DC grid supported by large battery storage, and an energy-efficient hull and rock handling arrangement. These features are intended to reduce CO₂ emissions.

Cooperation between CIMC Raffles and Van Oord resumed in 2021 after a ten-year interval. In 2025, CIMC Raffles delivered the WTIV Boreas to Van Oord. The yard highlighted high-precision manufacturing, schedule control, and lifecycle support covering design optimisation, construction management, technical troubleshooting, and after-sales service.

Also in 2025, the parties agreed on a 1+1 SRI deal with an option for an additional vessel order within an agreed timeframe. Van Oord has now exercised that option and proceeded with the second unit contract. CIMC Raffles said it will continue to advance technology and supply vessels and services aligned with green, intelligent, and efficient offshore engineering equipment.