Alewijnse fits out two search & rescue vessels for Damen Shipyards for humanitarian operations in the Black and Mediterranean Seas
With many migrant boats getting into difficulties in the Mediterranean Sea, the Romanian government is in the process of significantly expanding its emergency response fleet. The first two of a series of Damen Stan Patrol 5009 vessels, which are ideal for these missions, have completed their construction and fit-out at Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania. Their electrical systems are being installed and integrated by Alewijnse.
The two new vessels are being equipped for both search and rescue missions, and firefighting. They will be able to remain at sea for up to three days without refuelling and accommodate up to fifty refugees on board. The ships are also equipped with a helicopter transfer platform (winch-only) and have the capability to deploy drones, unmanned vehicles and fast intervention boats. They will also feature extensive communication and navigation systems that will enable them to participate in coordinated missions with other ships, vehicles and aircraft.
The decision to construct the ships at Damen Shipyards Galati was due to the company having long experience in the country. Alewijnse also has a close relationship with Damen, which includes it having had a permanent presence in the shipyard for decades, providing electrical systems installation and integration services.
Cutting-edge electrical solutions
For the two new 50-metre Damen Stan Patrol 5009 rescue ships, Alewijnse has provided a complete package of electrical installations and automation systems. The package has included consultancy, engineering, panel building, installation and commissioning. “Our company meets the high standards in shipbuilding and offers an optimal price-quality ratio for superior electrical solutions,” says Iosif Schlahetka, the senior automation engineer at Alewijnse responsible for the software solutions on board the two ships. “We also provide excellent service during and after the warranty period.”
Responding to emergencies and wildfires
The fleet expansion is part of the Vision 2020 project initiated by the Romanian General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations, which aims to improve disaster response capability. With these new search and rescue ships, Romania will be better equipped to handle the numerous emergency calls that come from the Black and the Mediterranean Seas.