Harkand said it is pursuing its investment strategy in Asia Pacific with the addition of a multi-million dollar new build ROV support vessel and the appointment of a new general manager to lead future growth.
In the first of two major milestones for the group, the Harkand Harmony has been secured on a three-year hire purchase that will see Harkand extend its inspection, repair and maintenance (IRM) services in the growing Asia Pacific region.
The 65-meter vessel, built by ASL Marine Holdings at Batam near Singapore, will be fitted with one Comanche workclass ROV for ROV support and air diving activities in the region, as well as a full survey kit and team for survey operations. Capable of accommodating 60 crew, it boasts a 580m² main deck, a Kongsberg DP2 dynamic positioning system, 20t electro-hyrdaulic knuckle boom crane and 4.5m moon pool.
The Harmony’s addition to the Harkand fleet, along with two new Triton XLX ROV’s which will be delivered in August, marks an important step forward in the company’s Asia Pacific development plan.
In a further move, Martin Watts has been appointed general manager to lead the company’s expansion in Asia Pacific. During a 35-year career, Martin has held a series of senior roles within the energy and shipping sectors.
Frédéric Fumey, managing director for Africa/Asia Pacific with Harkand said, “Asia Pacific is a major area of economic and population growth and building our business in the area is a key part of our growth strategy as we move forward. The region is one of the major offshore producing regions and offers promising market opportunities as the extensive platform and pipeline infrastructure will continue to require a growing volume of IRM activities”
Formed in February 2013 through the merger of Iremis, Integrated Subsea Services (ISS) and Andrews Survey following investment by Oaktree Capital Management, it employs 750 people at bases in Singapore and Perth in Asia Pacific, Dubai in the Middle East and Aberdeen in the U.K., Harkand aims to grow turnover to $1 billion in the next five years.
The group recently announced the acquisition of Veolia Marine Services based in Houston, which will further expand the group geographical reach, asset base and staff. This transaction is still subject to certain conditions and is expected to close in July 2013.
Present in Asia Pacific since 2009, it operates from two offices strategically located in the main oil and gas hubs of Singapore and Perth. Complete with workshop facilities, it operates a fleet of workclass ROVs and portable diving systems providing services for a number of different clients.