New fast craft handling capability to HMS Protector

Bergen based boat launch and recovery systems supplier, Vestdavit, has brought new fast craft handling capability to HMS Protector, the only Royal Navy ship dedicated to Antarctic Patrol & Survey duties.  

As part of its latest refit, the advanced icebreaker which provides a UK presence in the Antarctic has been equipped with a PLR-5000 davit from Vestdavit. 

The latest davit addition is to support missions using a newer and larger Fast Rescue Craft (FRC). The new PLR-5000 unit is fully winterized to function in line with the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters in Sea State 5 conditions. Its wide operating window is made possible by features supplied by Vestdavit as standard, including shock absorbers, high-performance winches and a constant tension system.

In line with the Royal Navy’s exacting requirements for its harsh Antarctic operating environment, the PLR-5000 davit system supplied will be certified in accordance with DNV-GL Rules as having been designed and built to operate in extreme temperatures of -40C. 

“HMS Protector plays a key role in ensuring the safety of navigation and understanding the marine environment in the Antarctic,” says William Goodall, Area Sales Manager for Vestdavit in the UK. “Vestdavit is delighted to continue making a critical contribution to the Royal Navy’s commitments in unforgiving seas. Having been stationed in Antarctica during my naval career, I am well aware of the challenges presented by extreme conditions and temperatures in the operation of advanced launch and recovery systems.”