Global groundbreaker is anchored in excellence

For more than 50 years, Kongsberg Maritime, together with our partner IP Huse, has been at the forefront of innovation in the anchor handling tug (AHT) market, pioneering the design of vessels as well as the delivery of integrated deck systems for these vital supply ships. 

Today, the company supplies more than 90 per cent of the systems for high-end AHTs, with hundreds in service around the world, and it continues to evolve its AHT integrated suite of products to meet the new demands on these vessels as the offshore sector changes.

Kongsberg Maritime’s anchor handling solutions begin with high-efficiency hull and propulsion designs, engineered for maximum bollard pull and fuel efficiency, and include a comprehensive range of deck machinery – a tailored assembly of winches, cranes, chain guides and anchor handling tools – all integrated under a single control system.

However, the offshore sector is evolving. Oil and gas operations are moving into deeper, more challenging waters, while emerging industries such as floating offshore wind and aquaculture are creating new operational demands.  

Anchor handling decks were once among the most hazardous workplaces at sea, with constant motion, high tensions on wires and chains and heavy machinery creating a challenging environment. However, Kongsberg Maritime’s Safer Deck Systems have been designed to automate and reduce the risk of operations when possible. One innovation is the shark jaw, a powerful chain-locking device that secures heavy mooring chains up to 220mm while the crew performs front-end connections safely. The new system even allows operators to adjust chain sizes remotely from the bridge, eliminating the need for physical adjustments on deck.

The new generation of cranes also comes equipped with specialised manipulators – not just hooks – capable of unbolting shackles, securing wire twists and positioning components with a joystick from a safe distance. These cranes reduce the physical strain on the crew and improve overall operational efficiency.

Such is the versatility of these powerful AHT vessels that they are expected to do more than just tow and deploy moorings. Kongsberg Maritime is helping drive this multi-role vessel trend with designs that allow for increased deck space, extended range and hybrid energy-efficiency systems to allow them to provide other roles, such as transport equipment, tow rigs, act as emergency response platforms and support subsea construction.

Lars Petter says: “The AHT market really showcases our integrated approach to enhancing our suite of AHT products and systems which combines deep product knowledge with insights into vessel operations, energy systems and offshore anchor handling strategies. This allows us to offer comprehensive support from concept to execution and to ensure that its systems are fit for the challenges ahead.”

Such is Kongsberg Maritime’s expertise in the AHT market that they see they have a role to play as ‘consultants’ to their customers, as Runar explains: “We aim to be more than a supplier – we are a trusted partner dedicated to providing our customers with complete and integrated solutions that address their specific operational challenges. We want ship owners and designers to come to us not just for products but for complete solutions. They tell us what they want to achieve – and we build the system that gets them there.”

Lars Petter concludes: “From hull design to propulsion, from winches and cranes to full automation systems – we deliver the entire ecosystem that empowers these vessels to perform the toughest offshore tasks. We are at the heart and brain of these vessels that make it all possible.”