In an exciting development for the subsea services sector, Film-Ocean Ltd, in conjunction with its parent company Stapem, has recently unveiled plans to invest in three cutting-edge Work-Class Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) from SMD. This strategic acquisition signifies not only a considerable step forward for Film-Ocean’s fleet but also reinforces its commitment to providing top-notch subsea solutions in an ever-growing market.
The new order includes two state-of-the-art SMD Quantum® 250-hp heavy-duty work-class ROVs and an SMD Atom® ultra-compact work-class ROV. Scott Jenney, CEO of Film-Ocean, expressed his enthusiasm for this development, noting that “adding these vehicles is a major step in the ongoing development of our fleet and a significant investment.” He further emphasized that this expansion will enhance the company’s flexibility and overall capacity to support a variety of client projects, backed by the robust resources of Stapem.
These ROVs are not just technological marvels; they are designed to excel in demanding offshore conditions. The Quantum ROVs, known for their high specifications, come equipped with active heave compensated launch and recovery systems (LARS), making them particularly adept for heavy-duty offshore construction tasks. Meanwhile, the Atom ROV packs a punch with its ultra-compact design, making it a versatile option for inspection, survey, and light construction duties. Mike Mackie, Operations Director at Film-Ocean, highlighted the critical role these additions will play in supporting a variety of initiatives, including inspection, repair, maintenance (IRM), decommissioning, and construction projects.
The partnership with SMD is set to flourish further, as Mike Jones, Chairman at SMD, spoke to the reliability and performance these ROVs are expected to deliver. He mentioned that the vehicles are particularly suited to meet the growing demands of projects in the West African region, including Angola—an area where investment in subsea technology is rapidly increasing.
Delivery of these impressive ROVs is on the horizon, with the Quantum models expected to arrive in October 2025 and January 2026, while the Atom is scheduled for Q2 of 2026. The anticipated arrival of this technology not only marks a pivotal moment for Film-Ocean but also underscores West Africa’s burgeoning significance in the global subsea services landscape.
As the industry continues to evolve, investments such as these by Film-Ocean highlight the potential for growth and innovation in subsea operations, ensuring that the company remains a competitive player in a dynamic market.
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