Batam shipyard uses air bags to launch X-bow

JANUARY 7, 2015 — The first of two Ulstein designed PX121 platform supply vessels for Singapore’s Britoil Offshore Services Pte Ltd was successfully launched this week —using ship launching airbags.

“Launches are always exciting, but this one was extremely smooth,” says Ulstein Asia manager Gunnar Haug.

The launch took place at the PT Britoil Offshore Shipyard in Batam, Indonesia, where the vessel is under construction.

Sister vessel Britoil Energy is expected to be launched in February 2015.

Singapore based Britoil has a fleet of 40 vessels, mainly anchor handling tugs and barges. The PX121 vessels will mark Britoil’s entry into the PSV market.

Photo by David Hill