Seatools, a leader in subsea technology, has secured a contract with Van Oord to design and deliver two Fall-Pipe ROVs (FP-ROVs) for use on their next-generation Subsea Rock Installation (SRI) vessels. These vessels, announced by Van Oord in July 2023, are aimed at bolstering the company’s position in the subsea rock installation market and protecting critical offshore energy infrastructure.

The FP-ROVs will ensure precise horizontal positioning of the fall pipe and will support pre-, intermediate-, and post-lay surveys. This will enable accurate rock placement, essential for safeguarding subsea cables, pipelines, and other infrastructure.

Long-Standing Collaboration with Van Oord

Seatools and Van Oord have enjoyed a strong and successful collaboration in Subsea Rock Installation for many years. Previously, Seatools provided complete Fall-Pipe ROVs for Bravenes and Stornes, and also carried out a full control-system upgrade for the FP-ROV on the Nordnes vessel.

This latest award further strengthens Seatools’ growing portfolio of project wins, including a Fall-Pipe ROV contract with Jan De Nul, as well as innovations in deep-sea exploration equipment and offshore decommissioning systems.

Supporting Van Oord’s Cutting-Edge Fleet

Van Oord’s next-generation vessels feature high loading capacity, advanced automation, and a sustainable multi-fuel power plant with methanol capability. The new vessels underscore Van Oord’s commitment to protecting critical subsea infrastructure while meeting the increasing global demand for energy security—goals to which these FP-ROVs will contribute.

Jan Frumau, Managing Director at Seatools, said, “We are proud to continue supporting Van Oord as they expand their SRI fleet with these advanced vessels. Delivering these two Fall-Pipe ROVs strengthens our long-term partnership and reflects the trust placed in our subsea technology. We are excited to play a role in the protection of essential subsea infrastructure worldwide.”