Swire Launches Fifth High Specification AHTS

Shipowner and operator, Swire Pacific Offshore Operations (SPO) welcomes another new anchor handling tug supply vessel, Pacific Dispatch to its fleet. This vessel is built by Singapore Technologies Marine Ltd (ST Marine) shipyard in Singapore.

"The launch of Pacific Dispatch is another important step for the company as we continue to develop our fleet of high specification anchor handling tug supply vessels. The D Class series has enjoyed a successful entry into service and each new vessel allows us to extend its presence across our key markets, supporting our customers with safe, high quality performance and service," says managing director, Neil Glenn.

Pacific Dispatch is the fifth of a series of six D Class vessels built under contract from ST Marine for SPO. Similar to the sister vessels in the D Class series, Pacific Dispatch is specially built to SPS 2008 and Ice-Class Notations and it has advanced technical capabilities to support the latest generation of semi-submersible rigs while ensuring fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact. The vessel is equipped with DP2 systems and boasts a clear deck space of 650 square meters. The main propulsion engine powers the vessel with 17,864 Brake Horsepower (BHP) certified to IMO Tier II standards. The large capacity 500 MT RRM Brattvagg winches, latest dynamic positioning technology, enhanced station keeping with independent drop down azimuth thruster, anchor recovery frame (ARF) and provisions crane provide the vessel with added flexibility, versatility and safety.

SPO is projected to have 100 vessels by the end of 2015, including a total of eight D Class vessels. To date, vessels in the D Class series delivered include Pacific Defiance (February 2013), Pacific Diligence (April 2013) and Pacific Dolphin (August 2013). Pacific Dove and Pacific Duchess have been launched and will be delivered by the first quarter of 2014. Pacific Dispatch is scheduled to be delivered by middle of 2014, followed by Pacific Dragon at the end of 2014.