ABB has secured a contract to provide an integrated electrical power, propulsion, and automation system for two hybrid-electric cable repair vessels being constructed for Orange Marine at Colombo Dockyard PLC in Sri Lanka. Scheduled for delivery in 2028 and 2029, these vessels will facilitate submarine cable maintenance across the Atlantic, Indian Oceans, and the Mediterranean, Black, and Red Seas. Orange Marine, a subsidiary of the Orange Group, specializes in subsea telecommunications cable operations.
The agreement includes ABB’s Azipod® DO propulsion units and a Compact Remote Control System, enhancing maneuverability and thrust control essential for cable repair tasks. This gearless design minimizes lubrication needs, reducing maintenance and operational costs. Additionally, the vessels will feature the ABB Ability™ 800xA Integrated Automation System for streamlined monitoring and control, alongside an integrated energy storage system to improve efficiency and lower emissions.
As global demand for cable repair vessels surges—projected to increase by 48% by 2040—ABB’s technology aims to support the aging maintenance fleet. Leaders from Orange Marine and Colombo Dockyard highlight ABB’s expertise as crucial for developing efficient, future-ready vessels that bolster global digital infrastructure.
