Global Marine Group has signed a contract to construct a new, purpose-built cable maintenance vessel, designed for fiber-optic submarine cable repair operations. The ship will be built at Colombo Dockyard in Sri Lanka, with delivery scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2029.
Based on a next-generation vessel design, the new build is the first step in a phased renewal of Global Marine’s fleet, introducing a hybrid-powered platform optimized for subsea cable maintenance.
The vessel has been engineered with a focus on station-keeping capability and reduced fuel consumption. Key features include hybrid power generation combining generators and battery systems, optimized fuel consumption through advanced engine configurations, azimuth thruster technology for propulsion efficiency and maneuverability, and a hydrodynamically optimized hull designed to improve transit efficiency in challenging sea states.
The ship will also include shore power connectivity to reduce emissions during standby periods and advanced emissions reduction systems to support compliance with Cleanship requirements and future regulatory standards. Together, Global Marine says these features will deliver reductions in CO2 and NOx emissions alongside improved operational reliability.
“This new build is about investing ahead of demand. It ensures Global Marine has the capability, capacity and efficiency required to support the next generation of subsea cable networks while reinforcing our position as the market-leading provider of maintenance services worldwide,” said Simon Hibberd, chief executive officer of Global Marine Group. “We are delighted to be partnering with Colombo Dockyard on this important project and look forward to welcoming the vessel into service in 2029.”
The new build follows Global Marine’s recent acquisition of CS Clipper, connected to a broader renewal of the company’s operational fleet. Global Marine said the investment is intended to strengthen its ability to support long-term maintenance contracts with cable owners and to position it to meet growing demand in the subsea cable market amid tighter environmental regulation.
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