http://www.lochaber-news.co.uk/news/ful ... e_sub.html
One photo of sub in water.
Trials for Chinese rescue sub
Published: 11 September, 2008
ONE of the world’s most advanced rescue submarines is currently undergoing final sea trials at the Underwater Centre in Fort William.
The vessel, known as the LR7, has been commissioned by the Chinese Navy.
The Underwater Centre’s unique environment means it can offer realistic and industry-relevant conditions for testing diving and submersible equipment checks.
The centre is based on the shores of Loch Linnhe where water depths plummet to 150 meters, deeper than most parts of the North Sea.
Located at the foot of Ben Nevis, its sheltered position means testing can be carried out 12 months of the year even in the most extreme weather conditions.
Steve Ham of the Underwater Centre says that the trial of the rescue submarine is a highly-significant contract.
“Our centre offers unique testing conditions second to none across the world,†he said.
“We also have a team of instructors which comprise some of the world’s most experienced divers and ROV pilots.
“We are delighted that we have been chosen to get involved with the testing of the LR7, as it is known.â€
The multi-million pound LR7, the next generation of deep submergence rescue vessels, has been designed and developed by Perry Slingsby Systems (PSS), part of the Aberdeen-based Triton Group, and will put the Chinese Navy at the forefront of sub sea search and rescue worldwide.
Capable of operating in depths of more than 300 metres, the 25ft long state-of-the-art submarine can transport up to 18 people rescued from stricken vessels.
Once this part of the trial process is complete, the vessel will simulate a rescue.
The final phase of the trials, which are expected to last three weeks, will include pilot training.
Kevin Taylor, PSS general manager said: “We worked closely with the Chinese Navy to develop the LR7 which uses the very latest technology and equipment.â€
After the trial is complete, the LR7 will return to PSS for further checks and the fitting of ancillary equipment before being delivered to China for sea trials
One photo of sub in water.
Trials for Chinese rescue sub
Published: 11 September, 2008
ONE of the world’s most advanced rescue submarines is currently undergoing final sea trials at the Underwater Centre in Fort William.
The vessel, known as the LR7, has been commissioned by the Chinese Navy.
The Underwater Centre’s unique environment means it can offer realistic and industry-relevant conditions for testing diving and submersible equipment checks.
The centre is based on the shores of Loch Linnhe where water depths plummet to 150 meters, deeper than most parts of the North Sea.
Located at the foot of Ben Nevis, its sheltered position means testing can be carried out 12 months of the year even in the most extreme weather conditions.
Steve Ham of the Underwater Centre says that the trial of the rescue submarine is a highly-significant contract.
“Our centre offers unique testing conditions second to none across the world,†he said.
“We also have a team of instructors which comprise some of the world’s most experienced divers and ROV pilots.
“We are delighted that we have been chosen to get involved with the testing of the LR7, as it is known.â€
The multi-million pound LR7, the next generation of deep submergence rescue vessels, has been designed and developed by Perry Slingsby Systems (PSS), part of the Aberdeen-based Triton Group, and will put the Chinese Navy at the forefront of sub sea search and rescue worldwide.
Capable of operating in depths of more than 300 metres, the 25ft long state-of-the-art submarine can transport up to 18 people rescued from stricken vessels.
Once this part of the trial process is complete, the vessel will simulate a rescue.
The final phase of the trials, which are expected to last three weeks, will include pilot training.
Kevin Taylor, PSS general manager said: “We worked closely with the Chinese Navy to develop the LR7 which uses the very latest technology and equipment.â€
After the trial is complete, the LR7 will return to PSS for further checks and the fitting of ancillary equipment before being delivered to China for sea trials