Renfrew-based JFD, a world-leading sub-sea operations and manufacturing company serving the commercial and defence markets, has completed the first of two new third-generation submarine rescue systems for the Indian Navy.
The end of the build was marked with a ceremony at the company’s manufacturing facility that was hosted by JFD and attended by senior representatives from the Indian Navy.
The system is a world-first, with the final integration of a complete submarine rescue system within a single manufacturing facility allowing engineers to test in-situ how each component part will integrate, thereby ensuring an optimum submarine rescue capability.
JFD’s system incorporates an innovative new design that ensures time-to-first-rescue (the time between system deployment and the start of the rescue) is minimised. In the event of an accident, this maximises the chances
of a successful rescue.
Under the £193 million contract, JFD is providing two complete ‘fly away’ submarine rescue systems that include ‘deep search and rescue vehicles’, launch and recovery systems equipment and ‘transfer under pressure’ systems — plus all logistics and support equipment required to operate the service.
The equipment is being shipped to India for final commissioning and trials before delivery to the Indian Navy in June.
JFD managing director Giovanni Corbetta said: “Speed and reliability are key in conducting safe and effective submarine rescue operations.
“The reliability with which any ‘fly away’ submarine rescue system can be deployed must be carefully balanced with its effectiveness and capability once on-site.
“It is essential that the system has the capability to conduct safe rescue operations in any given circumstance and under a widely variable conditions — including sea states and depths.”
The JFD team has already begun conducting in-depth training with local teams of engineers who will operate and maintain the systems. The company provides engineering services and training to 80 countries and 33 of the world’s navies.