Netherlands-based Damen Shipyards Group has successfully delivered three advanced search and rescue (SAR) vessels to Jawar Al Khaleej (JAK) in a ceremony held at Albwardy Damen in Sharjah, UAE.The handover, which took place just five months after the contract signing, includes two Damen SPi 1605 SAR class vessels and one Damen STe 1905 SAR vessel. These boats will be deployed in Iraqi waters as part of a 20-year contract between JAK and the Iraqi Ports Authority.JAK is tasked with establishing and operating a Search and Rescue Centre in Basra in collaboration with the government-owned General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI). The centre will introduce new capabilities for search and rescue operations across Iraqi waters. The delivered vessels, although based on Damen's standard designs, are outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment, including night vision cameras, onboard CCTV, man overboard platforms, stretchers, first aid supplies, and oxygen.Additionally, Damen is currently constructing another vessel for JAK, a Damen SAR 1906, which is seen as the next-generation in rescue boats. Developed in partnership with the Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Institution (KNRM), the SAR 1906 is designed to self-right after capsizing or even completing a full 360° roll. This vessel has already proven its effectiveness with KNRM and the Turkish Coastguard in challenging maritime conditions.Expanded Capabilities for Oil Spill Response The ceremony also marked the completion of a significant project for JAK - the conversion of the Jawar 31, a 122-metre vessel that was transformed into a multi-purpose heavy lift vessel at Albwardy Damen. The Jawar 31 is now equipped with oil spill response capabilities and a fully electric 250-tonne crawler crane. This extensive refurbishment aligns the vessel with newbuilding standards.While Iraq's coastline spans just 58 kilometers, it is a vital area for the country's economy, with 80% of its oil exports shipped from the Al Basra Oil Terminal. JAK's search and rescue operations will not only serve the offshore areas but also extend to Iraq's inland rivers.A Longstanding Partnership Pascal Slingerland, Regional Sales Director Middle East at Damen Shipyards Group, expressed his gratitude for JAK's continued trust.The handover event was organized by Jawar Al Khaleej and attended by key suppliers, including Liebherr, Lamor, ABS, Watertek, and Albwardy Damen, celebrating the collaboration that led to the successful delivery of the vessels. (ICE AMMAN)

Fonte notizia: Stampa Locale