Damen supports Colombian research vessel project
Written by Nick BlenkeyDamen Shipyards Group is to provide Colombian shipbuilder Cotecmar with design, engineering and technical assistance for the construction of an 83 m x 16 m Scientific Marine Research Vessel (Buque de Investigación Científico Marina) that will be the largest and most complex vessel ever to be built in Colombia.
The assistance is being provided under a recently signed Damen Technical Cooperation (DTC) contract.
DTC was established in 1977 to enable local yards to build Damen designs. With DTC, construction can take place in remote locations, often inland and local content requirements can be met. DTC customers can select the level of support they would like to receive from Damen – whether it is only the design under license, a full materials package or a combination of design, materials, shipbuilding assistance, advice and training.
Cotecmar operates two shipyards in Cartagena. It will build the research vessel at its Mamonal facility for DIMAR (Direccion Maritima – Maritime Authority).
DIMAR will operate the vessel in both Pacific and Caribbean Colombian waters, and will also sail it to the Antarctic. The vessel will carry various types of hydrographic equipment and will have a large A-frame aft, a helicopter deck and a hangar capable of handling a Dauphin or Bell 412 helicopter.