Subsea Technology & Rentals (STR) continues to invest in iXblue subsea navigation systems. This strengthens its global rental fleet. STR’s investment notably includes the acquisition of iXblue’s long baseline (LBL) system; Canopus. This makes them the first rental company to offer the system for hire. Part of iXblue’s sparse LBL solution, Canopus brings together intelligent transponders, Ramses transceivers, Inertial Navigation Systems(INS), and Delph Subsea Positioning Software. It is also a third-party friendly solution. In particular, it is able to be easily integrated within existing operational fields.
Expansion of Advanced Navigation and Positioning Portfolio
The addition of iXblue’s Rovins and Rovins Nano Inertial Navigation Systems,as well as Gaps M5 ultra short baseline (USBL) system, furthers STR’s already significant investment in these technologies. The new systems join their global rental pool, expanding the capabilities available in STR’s fleet for rental customers, and are available from their five international service hubs.
Executive Insight on Growth and Strategic Partnerships
STR’s Chief Operating Officer, Scott Johnstone, says, “As we entered 2022, we welcomed Baird’s investment, which will accelerate STR’s international growth in both our products and resources. This investment in iXblue is the largest STR has made in our 20 years of supplying iXblue products to customers. As a global leader with technology recognized worldwide in our industry, iXblue delivers systems that consistently meet our customers’ requirements and remain valuable assets. In 2021, we invested in the Gaps M5, which strengthened our rental fleet capabilities. Our customers have widely used these systems for geophysical surveys, offshore wind farm site investigations, as well as tracking and towed services.”
Technology Foundation and Offshore Applications
Based on fibre-optic gyroscope technology, iXblue navigation solutions have become standard in the offshore industry. An asset for offshore wind farms, Gaps M5 is a ready-to-use and calibration-free system. It offers accurate location, positioning and unrivaled horizontal tracking of subsea assets. Furthermore, these innovations contribute to maintaining a cutting-edge rental fleet for subsea operations. In addition, it integrates an Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS) for stable heading roll and pitch compensation and a true north reference.
Industry Perspective on Fleet Expansion
“STR has expanded over the past year, and we are thrilled to help strengthen its rental fleet to support its international growth,” says iXblue’s Regional Sales Manager, Maverick Piccininni. “This move shows its commitment to customers; by investing in a dynamic fleet of equipment, STR can adapt and respond quickly to their needs,” adds Piccininni.
Also Read:
