MacGregor has signed significant contracts to supply advanced cranes, handling equipment, and deck machinery for four new oceanographic research vessels. These orders were placed in the second and third quarters of 2026, with equipment deliveries starting in 2027 and concluding by the third quarter of 2029.
Construction of the Vessels
Two of these vessels will be built at the shipbuilding company GONDAN in Spain for the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency of Germany (BSH). The other two vessels will be constructed at Titagarh Naval Systems Limited in India for the Geological Survey of India (GSI).
Importance of Research Vessels
Research vessels are vital for studying the oceans, tracking climate change, and monitoring marine biodiversity. Performance in harsh marine environments requires exceptional and reliable equipment and technical solutions.
MacGregor's success in securing these contracts is a direct result of the company's extensive expertise and proven track record from previous deliveries. Close collaboration with shipbuilders and designers during the development phases of these projects demonstrates that MacGregor is a trusted and long-term partner for delivering high-performance solutions in complex marine missions.
Scope of Equipment Supply
The scope of supply for the four vessels includes single-line CTD winches, wire winches, oceanographic winches, corer winches, survey boat davits, CTD davits, deck cranes, A-frames, and corer handling systems with corer cradles.
Fernando Gonzalez, Purchasing Manager at GONDAN, stated: "For the complex BSH research vessels, we needed a reliable and trustworthy supplier. MacGregor's proven track record in producing high-performance deck machinery made them the right choice for this project."
Kai Tost, Head of the Maritime Agency of the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency of Germany, said: "At MacGregor, we have found an experienced manufacturer and supplier for scientific winches and hoists. This ensures a consistent operational philosophy in the new vessels. The systems are also known for their robustness and trouble-free performance."
Tommi Hakala, Executive Vice President of Global Services at MacGregor, added: "Research vessels contribute to oceanographic research and provide important data for fields such as climate science and marine biology. We are pleased to see the trust placed in us to supply this vital equipment for the success of future BSH and GSI operations."
