Article Posted on : - May 18, 2011

OSLO (BNS): Norway has signed a contract with the German consortium of HWD shipyard and MarineForce International LLP (MFI) to provide in-service support for the navy’s six Ula-class conventional submarines.

The agreement was signed on May 6, 2011.

Under the contract, the consortium will provide specialised engineering services for the German-built Ula-class diesel-electric submarines. Engineering assistance will be especially significant when it comes to obsolescence of spare parts.

The vessels are being upgraded to enhance their lifespan and keep them operational till 2020.

“This contract is an additional proof of the consortium’s commitment to ensure through-life-support for submarines of German origin,” HWD said.

Having faced an increasing demand for industrial in-service-support of their high-end submarines, HDW and MFI have established a dedicated department which takes care of all customer requirements regarding long-term in-service- support of operational submarines, the shipyard added.

The Norwegian Navy has been operating six Ula-class submarines commissioned between 1989 and 1992.

The submarine can accommodate 21 crew and cruise at a speed of 11 kn (20 km/h) on the surface and 23 kn (43 km/h) when submerged.