FORUM Energy Technologies, headquartered in Aberdeen, has announced a significant milestone in the realm of underwater technology. The company’s subsea product line has clinched a contract from the UK Ministry of Defence Salvage and Marine Operations (SALMO) team to provide a work-class remotely operated vehicle (ROV). This achievement marks a crucial advancement in enhancing the UK Ministry of Defence’s salvage capabilities.
The contract, arising from an Urgent Capability Requirement (UCR) announced in May, signifies Forum Energy Technologies’ pivotal role in supporting SALMO’s mission. The XLX-C Work-Class ROV, meticulously crafted at the company’s UK facility in Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, is slated for delivery later this year. In addition to the ROV system, the contract includes a comprehensive two-year support solution, warranty, spares package, vessel integration, and sea trials support. Furthermore, it encompasses a training package and the potential for future upgrades and expansions.
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Kevin Taylor, Vice President Operations – Subsea at Forum Energy Technologies, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “We are extremely pleased that our XLX-C ROV has been chosen to support the SALMO team’s customer. The ROV is one of the most versatile models on the market and has the capabilities required for the tasks that it will undertake for the SALMO team. We look forward to delivering the system on time later this year.”
Kristin Pearson, SALMO Project Manager, acknowledged the complexity of the contract and the collaborative efforts of the project team. “A momentous amount of work has gone into preparing what has been a complex contract in a very short time. The project team have pulled together and demonstrated a holistic and agile route to procurement. It was a great feeling to sign the contract and move us into the next stage,” Pearson stated.
Forum Energy Technologies has a commendable track record in delivering state-of-the-art ROVs and submarine rescue vehicles to major Asian navies. The company has also successfully constructed emergency life support store (ELSS) pods for the Hellenic Navy. Forum Energy Technologies’ products find applications across various sectors within the underwater industry, including defence, traditional and sustainable energy, telecommunications, mining, aquaculture, and academia.
This contract not only underscores Forum Energy Technologies’ technological prowess but also solidifies Aberdeen’s position as a hub for cutting-edge subsea innovations, furthering the city’s reputation in the global maritime industry.
