Norwegian shipbuilding company VARD recently signed a contract with U.S.-based research organization Inkfish to design and construct an advanced research vessel, with the contract valued at over $233 million (approximately RMB 1.67 billion).
This custom-built research vessel, designated as the RV6000 project, is specifically designed for scientific exploration. Upon delivery, it will join Inkfish’s fleet of two other research vessels, the *RV Hydra* and *RV Dagon*, to support global marine research efforts. Inkfish will collaborate with various nations on research initiatives, with collected data contributing to open-source databases.
The new vessel is equipped for seabed mapping, manned submersible support, and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) operations. It measures 100 meters in length and 20.7 meters in beam, with a maximum speed of 15 knots and an autonomous operational endurance of up to 30 days.
The ship features an ROV capable of diving to 6,000 meters and will support two manned submersibles. The stern is fitted with an A-frame system and a large hangar for equipment maintenance and storage. A starboard-mounted offshore crane with an active heave compensation (AHC) system will enable operations at depths of up to 2,500 meters.
Additionally, the vessel will be equipped with a hydroacoustic mapping system, enabling high-resolution (0.5 x 1 degree) seabed mapping and full-depth water column analysis.
Technically, the vessel employs a hybrid propulsion system. Its hull design balances high-precision mapping capabilities with excellent seakeeping performance, incorporating anti-roll technology to minimize hull motion and acceleration, ensuring superior hovering stability. The ship will also feature laboratories, offices, workspaces, and comfortable accommodations and recreational facilities for 70 crew and researchers, meeting DNV COMF class notation requirements for low noise and vibration.
By integrating its value chain, VARD will oversee the entire process from hull design and construction to equipment integration and commissioning. Its subsidiaries Seaonics, VARD Electro, and VARD Interiors will also contribute to the supply chain. The hull will be built at VARD’s shipyard in Romania, while final outfitting, commissioning, and delivery will be handled by its Norwegian shipyard, with completion scheduled for the second quarter of 2028.
Inkfish is a global philanthropic organization combining expertise in vessels, engineering, medical innovation, and operations, dedicated to developing new technologies and supporting marine research programs.
