Introduction/about JFD

JFD is one of the world’s leading subsea operations and engineering companies providing complex diving and underwater systems to the commercial and defence industries. Operating in more than 80 countries worldwide, the company is the world’s leading provider of submarine rescue capability and an established provider of submarine escape training. The company is at the forefront of Hyperbaric Rescue, along with being the leading supplier of commercial diving equipment and saturation diving systems to the commercial industry. JFD was created in 2014 through the merger of James Fisher Defence and Divex. In 2015 JFD acquired the National Hyperbaric Centre to further boost the services offered to its customers.

JFD unveils new ventilator system to support global battle against COVID-19

JFD, a world leader in breathing apparatus, life support equipment and hyperbaric medical equipment to support life-critical applications and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, today announced that it will bring to market a new patient ventilator system to support global health systems in combatting the COVID-19 pandemic.

JFD has responded to the UK Government’s Rapidly Manufactured Ventilator System call to manufacturers, to support the provision of essential medical equipment to the front-line NHS.

The InVicto™ ventilator is more advanced than CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) systems; it has been fully developed, including full in-house testing, and is ready for launch into full scale production and global distribution. The InVicto™ system can support global healthcare services by reducing pressure on intensive care unit (ICU) facilities, helping to save lives as the virus approaches its peak in many countries.

JFD has engineered the InVicto™ ventilator system, with extensive testing conducted in the JFD breathing laboratories.

The InVicto™ is suitable for deployment in many scenarios due to its flexible design. This could be in a pre-critical temporary ward or care home, providing an enhanced breathing ventilation aid that offers an improvement over CPAP treatment. The system extends to full hospital ward capability providing full ventilation support with patient monitoring, breathing gas and O2 management and alarms.

JFD has designed the system with a specific focus on reducing the usage of O2. For InVicto™, it has applied its world leading expertise in breathing gas reclaim systems for the offshore diving industry. InVicto™ uses up to 90% less O2 than other ventilators available on the market. Due to exceptional demand and logistical challenges in supply driven by the onset of the COVID Pandemic, JFD considered that O2 could likely become an increasingly scarce resource to provide at scale. Therefore, the design philosophy was to also produce a ventilator which operates with minimal O2 consumption.

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Release date: 18/11/2024

JFD successfully mobilises the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) during complex international exercise, Dynamic Monarch

JFD participates in Dynamic Monarch 24 mobilising the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) as part of a multi-nation exercise to test and refine submarine intervention and rescue capabilities in some of the most challenging environments.

Completed on 19 September off the coast of Norway, Dynamic Monarch 24 was the first in cold waters since 2014 providing an important opportunity for participating Navies to demonstrate the latest submarine rescue technology and operational procedures within a complex and challenging scenario.

Having managed the NSRS In Service Support (ISS) contract since 2015, on behalf of NSRS participant nations, UK, France and Norway, JFD is responsible for maintaining the system in a rescue ready state so that it can be called upon to respond to a Disabled Submarine (DISSUB) as rapidly as possible.

Richard Devlin, JFD Defence Director said:

“We proudly support the NSRS with a full availability contract recently transitioning from the Second into the Third ISS contract following award in 2022 for a further potential nine years maintaining our support to the UK and Partner Nations.

Throughout the duration of the ISS contracts, JFD has developed a unique relationship with the NSRS system which is further strengthened through a programme of regular exercises, critical to ensuring both personnel and equipment and fully prepared for the complexities of a real-life rescue operation.

This has been an excellent training period for NSRS, the team have admirably demonstrated the capability at sea to a wide audience of military observers and the UK MoD.”

Participating Forces from the US, Germany, Canada, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Türkiye and other allied navies joined the NSRS Participant Nations to practice interoperability and improve combined submarine rescue operations and share best practice during various scenarios where reaction time and specialist equipment are essential.

JFD mobilised the NSRS rescue system and associated assets from Edinburgh in Scotland, UK to the exercise location off the southeastern coast of Norway. The system considered one of the most capable in the world, successfully operated the Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV), rated to 610msw, in difficult environmental conditions. During the operational phase of the Exercise the SRV completed a series of mates with a Swedish GOTLAND Class and a Norwegian ULA Class submarines, conducting dry transfer of personnel from submarine to the SRV.

Concurrently the NSRS Intervention System, mobilised to the French Navy ship BSAM Rhone, from Portsmouth, UK. The Intervention System conducted a number of serials where the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) was deployed.

Over the course of the ten-day exercise, other successful rescue scenarios were performed alongside the ‘URF’ Rescue System and HSwMS BELOS from Sweden, and TCG ALEMDAR from Türkiye.

Richard continued:

“Participating in Dynamic Monarch not only gives us the opportunity to demonstrate JFD’s competence, but it is also essential for the continual enhancement of our expertise and capability ensuring we remain at the forefront as global submarine rescue operations evolve rapidly.

There is a continued emphasis on safety, rapid response and international cooperation as submarine operating ranges and coverage areas expand. We remain dedicated to enhancing safety for those who work subsea, the practical experience and knowledge gained from these exercises is invaluable to continuously developing our capability.”

Supporting the mobilisation and operation of a Submarine Rescue system is a significant endeavour with a wide number of logistical challenges. JFD has over 40 years operational experience and holds long term service contracts with some of the world’s most notable systems including Australia, India and Singapore.

Dynamic Monarch follows Exercise Southern Sun, conducted in the South of France in May, which achieved a significant first with NSRS system mating to the newest French Navy SSN and mobilisation of the full system to vessel BSAD Jason.

Release date: 04/06/2024

James Fisher’s Tony Tang Kok Yong qualifies as first Singaporean Submarine Rescue Vehicle Pilot 1

As the world’s leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets, JFD, part of James Fisher and Sons plc (James Fisher), is delighted to celebrate that Rescue Service Technician Tony Tang Kok Yong has qualified as the first Singaporean Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV) Pilot 1.

This achievement demonstrates James Fisher’s commitment to developing the local community and its home market capability in Singapore. Tony becomes the first Singaporean SRV Pilot to complete the intensive training programme and pursue this specialist career.

With this qualification, he will join James Fisher’s pool of SRV pilots and further strengthen its ability to respond to a submarine emergency globally, especially across the Indo Pacific region.

Derick Tan, Singapore Operations Manager, JFD, said:

“Tony has demonstrated the necessary requirements and competence required to qualify in this vaunted position and therefore becomes the first Singaporean to qualify as a pilot within the James Fisher Singapore Submarine Rescue Service (JFSSRS) system.

“He has continued to overcome recent disruptions following the pandemic which illustrates just how driven he was to succeed. This, coupled with his excellent technical knowledge of matters concerning the rescue SRV, makes him a remarkable asset to JFD.

“We are proud to have someone as experienced and knowledgeable as Tony as part of our Singapore submarine rescue capability and welcome him to the brotherhood of rescue submersible pilots.

“JFD thanks the Republic of Singapore Navy for their support to the rescue service and for providing training opportunities to maintain competency and develop the team for the benefit of the service and the global ability to perform submarine rescue.”

Tony qualified on DSAR-6, an SRV delivered to Singapore by JFD in 2009. Under a 20-year contract to the customer for submarine rescue and related services until March 2029, DSAR-6 is in service on-board the submarine support and rescue vessel (SSRV), MV Swift Rescue.

Starting his career with JFD as a Rescue Service Technician (Electrical), Tony went on to qualify as a Rescue Chamber Operator in February 2015. He continued his training and participated in Exercise Pacific Reach 2016, a multilateral submarine escape and rescue exercise, as an SRV Training Pilot 2.

Tony was selected for training ahead of schedule because of his excellent skills and ability, and because he had qualified as an SRV Pilot 2. He successfully qualified as SRV Pilot 1 in late 2023.

Tony Tang Kok Yong, SRV Pilot 1, JFD, said:

“It has not been an easy road. Training lessons can be accomplished via courses that can be taken at any time, but I also required a lot of dive time to achieve the skills and experience needed as an SRV Pilot 1. Without the support of the whole Singapore Rescue Team, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve where I am today.”

Commander Third Flotilla (C3F) from the RSN presenting the P1 certificate to Tony.

Release date: 20/05/2024

JFD welcomes Peter Laughton MBE as Head of Military Diving

JFD Limited, part of James Fisher & Sons PLC, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets, is pleased to welcome Peter Laughton as Head of Military Diving to support the company’s continued growth within both the UK and international defence markets.

Peter brings over 32 years of extensive operational experience in the Royal Navy, with a substantial part of his career at sea in frigates, destroyers, and minehunters. His specialisation since 1998 as a Mine Clearance Diving Officer, along with his recent operational command of a 12-nation International Maritime Security Construct and Coalition Task Force SENTINEL, ensures that, as Head of Military Diving, Peter will provide unparalleled expertise and knowledge to enhance JFD’s Defence Diving Product Line.

As a member of the Defence Management Team, Peter will be accountable for the general management of our global Defence Diving team and responsible for the further development and implementation of our strategy and delivering mission success to our customers. A key part of Peter’s role will be working closely with our international teams and customers to develop JFD’s Military Diving product portfolio for the future, enhancing our offering in response to the requirements and challenges faced by modern dive teams.

Richard Devlin, Defence Director of JFD said:

“JFD is thrilled to announce the appointment of Peter Laughton to join the team. His depth of practical experience and knowledge will help us gain a distinctive perspective and build our competitive advantage as we work to strengthen our portfolio to better support the strategic requirements for our customers not only for today but also looking towards the future. Having Peter on our team and leveraging his operational expertise will significantly enhance JFD’s commitment to ensuring the safety of subsea workers”

JFD’s ongoing design evolution of their Military Diving systems, catering to Special Forces and Mine Clearance operations in alignment with customer-specific needs ensures consistent delivery of unparalleled safety, performance and availability supporting a wide range of missions. This positions JFD as the preferred underwater life support system for Special Operations and Mine Clearance Divers globally.

Peter Laughton said:

“I am genuinely thrilled to be joining JFD as the Head of Military Diving. It’s a hugely exciting and challenging role that is in many respects a wonderful return to where it all began as a Mine Clearance Diving Officer. I look forward to playing my part applying my expertise and passion for innovation to further enhance safety and operational efficiency for underwater operators.

Given my reliance on JFD life support systems throughout my Naval career, I am looking forward to transferring my operational understanding to help JFD continue its success as a leading provider of complex and critical systems supporting leading Navies globally.”

Release date:19/4/24

James Fisher & Sons strengthens defence presence in Barrow-in-Furness supporting Submarine Manufacture

James Fisher & Sons PLC, leading provider of specialist services to the marine industry, is proud to further strengthen its 177 year commitment to Barrow-in-Furness through a dedicated Defence presence within its company headquarters. This strategic move comes in response to the UK’s recent announcement of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise Command Paper and its support to Barrow as the existing hub of nuclear submarine building for the UK.

Comprising the defence division within James Fisher, specialist life support equipment provider, JFD has over 40 years experience supporting defence and commercial industries, providing innovative equipment, systems and services which maximise safety and reliability in challenging underwater environments. The company’s expertise extends to the engineering, design and manufacture of complex critical equipment particularly in the areas of atmosphere production and monitoring, enabling systems that allow safe ingress and egress from the submarine. JFD has already delivered and continues to support systems on four submarine fleets, for the UK and international partners.

On Friday 19^th April 2024, local MP Simon Fell joined an event at the offices in Barrow to cement local relationships at the office and commented:

“Barrow celebrated 150 years of naval shipbuilding in 2023. That is a remarkable legacy. But Barrow has a remarkable future ahead of it too, entering a new chapter with the AUKUS partnership. The town will be the backbone for the delivery of the next generation on attack submarines for the US, Australia, and the UK.

“James Fisher’s legacy is far-reaching, is tied into Barrow’s history, and reflects our status a hardworking, shipbuilding town. JFD’s commitment to Furness is therefore very welcome indeed and speaks the bright future ahead of us. This is exactly the kind of expansion in the local area that we need on the back of Team Barrow and the continued development of AUKUS.”

Headquartered in Aberdeen and Glasgow, JFD is strategically located to provide emergency response services to submarines supported by the NATO Submarine Rescue Service and commercial hyperbaric lifeboats as part of the emergency response contracts it maintains. With additional locations in Australia and the US, the company is also uniquely positioned to support future submarine requirements, including those under the AUKUS partnership. An enhanced presence in Barrow will increase the company’s connectivity with customers and enable it to provide ongoing support as the submarine enterprise embarks on the challenges of advancing submarine capabilities for AUKUS partners.

Rob Hales, JFD Managing Director said:

“We are excited to strengthen our defence presence in Barrow-in-Furness, aligning ourselves more closely with the heart of submarine building and our customers in the UK. This development underscores our commitment to providing the highest level of support to our clients and our pledge to the future; enhancing safety for submariners in the UK and globally.”

James Fisher was founded in 1847 in Barrow in Furness and is proud to continue supporting a skilled workforce and maintain its company headquarter offices which are strategically positioned to facilitate seamless customer collaboration and support the company’s growing operations in the region.

Release Date 11/4/2024

JFD demonstrates excellence in Submarine Rescue operations during Rescuex West 24 exercise, underlining commitment to assured availability, safety and training

JFD Limited, part of James Fisher & Sons PLC, has once again showcased its leadership in submarine rescue by successfully completing the mobilisation of critical components of the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) during the Rescuex West 24 exercise.

Following a seamless transition into the Third In Service Support (3ISS) contract, which commenced after signing in December 2022, this exercise marks an important milestone in JFD’s commitment to continual improvement and assured operational availability for its customer. This exercise is incorporated into the Assurance Exercise Schedule and emphasises the rescue readiness of the NSRS system as well as providing an opportunity for training and competence of personnel.

Richard Devlin, JFD Defence Director said:

“We are incredibly proud of the completion of another world leading demonstration of Submarine Rescue capability. The exercise further validates JFD’s suitability for the NSRS 3ISS contract and reinforces our position as a trusted partner in submarine rescue to NATO and other global navies…”

Taking place over an eight-day period during challenging winter weather conditions in the waters off Arran, Scotland, Rescuex West 24 saw the mobilisation of key NSRS components including the Portable Launch and Recovery System (PLARS), Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV) and Portable Navigation, Tracking and Communication System (PNTCS) onto the UK Navy Multi Purpose vessel SD Northern River.

Due to the inherent complexities and dangers of submarine rescue operations, one of the primary objectives for exercises is personnel training and Rescuex West 24 put particular focus on training for new PLARS personnel as part of the contract’s expansion. In addition, the exercise provided the opportunity to maintain competency of other JFD operational personnel through a series of SRV dives.

Richard Devlin continued:

“Submarine Rescue services play a vital role in mitigating the catastrophic consequences of submarine accidents, especially at dangerous depths where complexity is amplified. By executing these drills, we continually enhance experience and confidence levels ensuring not only the equipment, but all personnel are well rehearsed and prepared to respond in the event of an emergency situation.”

The exercise also served as a testament to JFD’s ability to operate alongside naval forces, rapidly mobilising on board vessels of opportunity to provide potentially life-saving support when called upon.

JFD’s successful completion of Rescuex West 24 underscores its commitment to operational excellence, subsea safety and continual improvement, reaffirming its position as the world’s leading submarine rescue provider.

Release date 14/12/2023

JFD Australia Demonstrates It’s World Leading Submarine Rescue System

JFD Australia Demonstrates Its World Leading Submarine Rescue System

JFD Australia, part of James Fisher and Sons plc, the proven, trusted and reliable provider of Australia’s submarine rescue capability for the past 15 years, has successfully demonstrated its world-class rescue system during annual ocean exercises, White Carillon, off the coast of Perth, Western Australia.

Over a two-week period, the system completed a range of simulated rescues using underwater targets in varying depths and conditions to achieve its yearly safety and operational certification.

“This is a critical sovereign capability that JFD supplies, which is why exercises like these are immensely important. Not only do they ensure that Australia’s system receives annual certification and compliance to Navy assurance processes – it gives submariners and other defence personnel the peace of mind that, in the event of a submarine in distress, they are in the safest possible hands.” said Ms Cathy Falkiner, Managing Director, JFD Australia.

JFD’s fully integrated rescue system, which has a strong safety track record in all types of water currents and depths, can save submariners from a disabled submarine and transfer them safely to the water’s surface.

Using sonar to locate the submarine, a remotely operated vehicle is deployed to survey for the disabled submarine. Tracking devices are deposited and allow a free-swimming Deep Search and Rescue Vehicle (a “mini” submarine) to be launched from a nearby ship, to find the disabled submarine as quickly as possible.

The piloted vehicle then dives down to “mate” with the submarine’s escape hatch, rescuing and transporting the crew under pressure to the water’s surface and into a state-of-the-art hyperbaric equipment suite, that can provide crucial medical treatment.

This means the entire crew of a Collins-class submarine can be saved and then given access to care in the JFD Hyperbaric Reception Chamber facility, as quickly and efficiently as possible.

There are only six air transportable submarine rescue systems in the world and JFD supplies five of them – in Australia and also in Singapore, India, Korea and to NATO members.

“The time to first rescue is all that matters in a submarine emergency when our sole focus is on saving lives,” said Ms Falkiner.

“We are proud to be on standby and “rescue ready” at 12 hours’ notice to respond from our national headquarters at Bibra Lake, south of Perth with a team of dedicated professionals committed to ensuring the safety of submariners will always be our number one priority.”

Importantly, the exercise also saw JFD qualify the following key personnel:

Two submersible rescue chamber operators
1 x P1- the P1 is the lead position in the submersible and is effectively the command role and retains overall responsibility for the success of the mission from the submersible point of view.
Two x P2 pilots received further training in progression towards becoming P2 and ultimately P1 pilots.
Operational manager/director – command leadership. Command and Control is a key role in our operations, training was given to new personnel, building on our local in country capability to support rescue operations.

Release date 02/10/2023

JFD showcases 42 years of subsea innovation to His Majesty, King Charles III at Aberdeen’s Global Underwater Hub

HRH King Charles JFD Aberdeen.jpg

JFD demonstrated the importance of equipment safety within manned diving operations to King Charles III as part of a Royal Visit to Aberdeen’s Global Underwater Hub.

The Global Underwater Hub (GUH) champions the UK’s underwater industry by providing opportunities for networking and collaboration, helping to bolster the market’s influence on a global scale. Having begun his career in the Royal Navy in 1971, the King has a special interest within subsea and a passion for the conservation of the ocean ecosystem.

On the 29^th September 2023, the GUH hosted the King at their Westhill facility in Aberdeen to present a selection of local underwater companies who exemplify pioneering subsea technology and demonstrable success.

JFD’s heritage in the maritime environment started more than 175 years ago by James Fisher. The company maintains a rich heritage of maritime capability as a proud UK listed company. JFD has played a long-standing role in the development of subsea equipment with the founding of Gas Services Offshore in 1980. In 1981 the company ‘struck gold’ as their invention of the Diver Gas Recovery System successfully enabled the recovery of HMS Edinburgh’s cargo of gold bullion. Without this innovation, saturation diving today would not be commercially practical.

Also forming part of JFD is the National Hyperbaric Centre in Aberdeen, built in 1987 by the UK government for subsea testing, research and training purposes.

The Aberdeen based companies which now form part of JFD each played a unique role in the development of pioneering solutions to complex subsea challenges as the UK and its partners developed the subsea industry in the North Sea.

JFD now operates across the commercial and defence industries on a global scale and continues to pioneer, innovate, and break boundaries designing, manufacturing, and supporting subsea technologies which significantly improve diver safety.

Rob Hales, JFD Managing Director commented:

“It was an honour to meet the King and discuss JFD’s role providing life-saving and safety-critical services to our customers in the energy and defence sectors. We are immensely proud of our 40-year track record at the forefront of our industry, with our expertise in demand by partners around the world.

The visit was also a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the incredible innovation which started and continues in our Aberdeen facility and engage with the local community and school children who also attended the visit. We are passionate about inspiring the next generation and always keen to give them an insight into the diverse and interesting subsea industry.”

On display was JFD’s COBRA (Compact Bailout Rebreather System) the world’s most widely adopted emergency bailout system for commercial divers offering 45 mins of breathing gas in the event of a primary failure. JFD also showcased our Stealth fully non-magnetic closed circuit rebreather system for Mine Clearance divers. Both systems are designed, manufactured, and maintained within JFD’s Aberdeen facility, and exported to customers around the world.

JFD continues to grow with over 500 employees worldwide and has operating bases in the UK, Australia, Singapore, Sweden, Netherlands, South Africa, India and the US.

Release date: 27/06/2023

JFD launches its Fourth Generation Submarine Rescue System ‘Agile’ marking a step change in response time, mobilisation and safety when reacting to Distressed Submarine incidents

JFD is proud to unveil its ‘Agile’ Submarine Rescue System (SRS), based on 40 years’ experience, which marks a significant enhancement in available transport options, mobilisation configurations and system safety when responding to a Distressed Submarine (DISSUB) incident.

For the first time, a full SRS can be transported via commercial aircraft; drastically increasing the range of air transport options in comparison to current systems, which rely solely on large, limited availability military aircraft. This ensures the Rescue System can, as quickly as possible, get to the DISSUB location within the 72 hours’ Time to First Rescue (TTFR) window; a challenge long faced particularly by nations with a large coastal footprint or vast submarine range.

In addition, road transport and mobilisation challenges benefit from JFD’s SRS optimised footprint and flexible, containerised configuration adaptable to suit a wide variety of rescue scenarios. The number of available Vessels of Opportunity (VOOs) is increased, which, combined with concurrent sub-assembly, reduced system interfaces and optimised process implementation enables the rescue team to mobilise quickly and efficiently.

Ben Wright, JFD Submarine Rescue Capability Manager said:

“JFD’s 40 years of engineering expertise combined with maintenance and operational experience practiced daily across our global In-Service Support contracts has refined the design drivers for our Agile SRS.

Getting a complex SRS to a DISSUB location as quickly as possible in order to maximise the time to effect a rescue remains an enormous challenge for navies globally.

The Agile SRS optimises transportability, modular configuration and simplified vessel interface flexibility in order to reduce TTFR and the complexity of these core mobilisation operations. These improvements also drastically improve system maintainability and resistance to obsolescence, enhancing assured availability and the ability for navies to ensure they are always ‘rescue ready’”.

JFD_Fourth Generation Submarine Rescue System AGILE BODY IMAGE.png

The Agile System incorporates proven state-of-the-art technology transferred from the commercial diving industry and JFD brands Divex and Fathom Systems, enabling enhanced atmosphere monitoring, environmental conditioning and hyperbaric monitoring capability while enhancing reliability and safety.

The design is optimised for modularity enabling the incorporation of future technology advances including automation, adaptable to suit any navy now and into the future.

Rob Hales, JFD Managing Director commented:

“JFD is the world leader in Submarine Rescue systems, support and operations. We are the submarine rescue partner to many of the world’s navies including the UK, France and Norway (via the NATO Submarine Rescue System), Korea, Australia, Singapore and India.

Our mission, which has stood since the company’s inception in 1983 by the late Roger Chapman, is to enhance the safety of those who spend their lives subsea, and JFD is committed to working alongside customers to help address current challenges.

A rescue scenario is complex; equipment availability, reliability and safety are paramount. Our Agile SRS is built on JFD’s 40 years of engineering and operational expertise and offers unparalleled and flexible capability to the rapidly adapting requirements of today’s navies.”

Find out more about the ‘Agile’ Submarine Rescue System here: LINK

Release date: 09/05/2023

JFD showcases new Tactical Diving Vehicle technology at SOF Week 2023 ahead of delivery to US Partner

JFD – part of James Fisher and Sons plc – has launched its advanced four man tactical diving platform, Shadow Seal, during SOF Week 2023, ahead of delivery to United States partner Blue Tide Marine (BTM) for demonstration and training purposes.

Shadow Seal is an adaptable and extremely capable lightweight Tactical Diving Vehicle (TDV) able to transport a pilot, navigator and two passengers in surface, semi submerged and submerged mode with a range of 80nm.

Shadow Seal offers unparalleled underwater manoeuvrability to Special Operations Forces required to covertly cross the expanding offshore and littoral water gap. Adaptable to suit a variety of ISTAR and combat requirements, the platform provides sophisticated protection to complex, high value platforms and critical infrastructure.

A strategic partnership with BTM was announced in March 2022 as part of JFD’s commitment to expanding its US presence and subsea maritime capability. BTM subsequently purchased the first production model of Shadow Seal to provide local demonstration and training services – significant milestone in JFD’s journey towards a full turnkey US capability, inclusive of TDV provision and follow on support services throughout the product lifecycle.

Bob Pudney, President, Blue Tide Marine, comments:

“We are excited to bring this collaborative effort of JFD and BTM to the subsea sector and look forward to the delivery of the Shadow Seal. This multi-mission capable platform provides an opportunity to modernise the undersea capabilities of SOCOM, the US Navy and other agency partners with advanced mission focused technology, extended range and offers practical training and in service support.”

Shadow Seal SOF Week.png

JFD has been working closely with the BTM team during production at JFD’s facility in Glasgow, UK, and final in-water trials, FATS (Factory Acceptance Trials) and HATS (Harbour Acceptance Trials) are currently underway prior to delivery to BTM in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in coming months. JFD will continue to offer support and training as the craft is delivered to the US.

Rob Hales, JFD Managing Director, says:

“The BTM partnership ensures that we can offer innovative solutions to modern day challenges; such as the current capability gap in littoral manoeuvre; with first class in-country demonstration and training. JFD is committed to further developing our in-country capabilities including through-life support services and this upcoming, important delivery milestone reflects a significant milestone in our mission to better serve the US and wider Americas undersea markets.”

Shadow Seal was first developed by Ortega Submersibles in The Netherlands which was acquired by JFD in 2019 and has since undergone further development and rigorous trials. JFD has combined 40 years’ experience within the subsea domain with proven technology; found within JFD’s Carrier Seal which is in operation with a number of the World’s Navies. Recent upgrades included in the latest Shadow Seal include expansion of available battery power enhancing range and endurance capacity of the craft.

JFD will be exhibiting alongside BTM at SOF Week 2023 on 8-11 May 2023, and will be displaying a prototype model of Shadow Seal (MK1D) on Stand 501 at the Tampa Convention Centre. SOF Week is an important opportunity for JFD US to promote its world-leading capabilities in the underseas sector, and our UK and US team will be on hand to discuss Shadow Seal and wider JFD Special Operations capabilities.

Release date 14/03/2023

James Fisher and Sons plc announces new Head of Defence

James Fisher and Sons plc (‘James Fisher’, ‘the Group’) announces the appointment of Rob Hales as Head of Defence with responsibility for directing and overseeing the Group’s global defence division operations and growth. In this capacity, Rob sits on the James Fisher executive team and reports to Chief Executive Officer, Jean Vernet.

Jean Vernet, Chief Executive Officer, comments:

“We’re very pleased to have Rob join us as Head of Defence at a pivotal moment both for James Fisher and for international security more broadly. Rob’s strategic leadership experience within the defence industry means he has a clear focus on customer needs and market opportunities.”

Rob has held leadership roles in the defence industry since 2014, most recently heading Serco’s Aviation and Maritime portfolio providing services to the UK Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and commercial customers. Rob also brings with him prior knowledge of James Fisher, having worked alongside its defence specialist – JFD – on the NATO Submarine Rescue System’s mothership.

Rob Hales, Head of Defence, comments on his new position:

“I’m honoured to take on the position of Head of Defence for James Fisher, recognising the criticality of the role together with the products and services we provide for our defence and commercial customers who put their lives in our hands on a daily basis.

“I have been delighted to meet so many outstanding and committed colleagues during my first weeks with the Group, seeing first-hand the dedication to our customers’ safety and mission. The defence division is core to the James Fisher strategy, and I look forward to delivering on our potential.”

Release date: 07/02/2023

JFD supports highly successful NATO submarine rescue system aircraft loading exercise with the US Air Force

JFD NSRS Flying Fish Exercise_website image.png

JFD supported a very successful Flying Fish exercise, a NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) aircraft loading evolution, with the US Air Force last September.

Held at Royal Air Force Mildenhall in Suffolk, the exercise was conducted to ensure the submarine rescue system equipment can be loaded and transported using the US Air Force’s C5 Super Galaxy aircraft type in the event of a submarine rescue operation.

In an unpredictable world, improving air mobility options for the transportation of submarine intervention and rescue capabilities is critical. Delays in a rescue operation could be catastrophic and it is vital that multiple aircraft types are able to transport the equipment and ensure a timely response to submarine emergencies.

This Flying Fish exercise has significantly improved the options for NSRS air movement because the C5 aircraft is similar in capacity and range to the NSRS’ other prime carrier, the Antonov AN124 aircraft. The AN124 fleet availability had been in some doubt due to the war in Ukraine and therefore proving the C5’s viability as an alternative NSRS carrier was seen by the NSRS participant nations as a very positive enhancement to air mobility of the system.

Gary Lindhofer, Head of Defence Services, JFD, said:

“Success in response to any potential submarine rescue incident is reliant on the timely delivery of equipment and personnel to the incident location.

Access to a range of proven and heavy lift aircraft from multiple sources is essential, and the achievements and learning gained from this exercise are vital towards the combined efforts of the NSRS Participant Nations and United States Navy in assuring the continued safety of its submariners.”

JFD NSRS Flying Fish Exercise_website image 2.png

The NSRS is jointly owned by the UK, France and Norway and maintained by JFD. JFD also provides the pilots and launch and recovery teams. The UK, France and Norway have a Memorandum of Understanding with the US for collaboration and mutual support in response to a Distressed Submarine incident.

The NSRS Air Movement exercises are designed to rehearse the loading of NSRS assets onto suitable heavy lift aircraft, such as the C17, A400M and Antonov AN124. The objective of this exercise was to demonstrate that the equipment, personnel, process, and documentation associated with the air movement of NSRS would work for the US Air Force’s C5 Super Galaxy aircraft. This was the first time that this had been done.

The exercise saw the successful culmination of weeks of planning between JFD and its trusted supply chain of the NSRS Authority, UK Ministry of Defence, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, US Navy and US Air Force.

JFD is a world leader in the submarine rescue domain and has recently been awarded the ‘Third In-Service Support’ contract by the NSRS Authority. JFD will continue to provide operational assurance services to the NSRS, having managed the ‘Second In-Service Support’ contract since 2015.

JFD is an established provider to 80 countries and over 30 navies worldwide and supports multiple submarine rescue systems in service around the globe. Exercises such as Flying Fish further strengthen JFD’s capability and ability to deliver an assured service to the Participant Nations.

Release date: 21 December 2022

JFD wins £63M ‘Third In-Service Support’ NATO submarine rescue system contract

JFD has today announced that it has won the prestigious ‘Third In-Service Support’ (3ISS) contract, worth £63M, continuing seven years of safety critical operational assurance services to the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS).

The 3ISS contract awarded to JFD by the NSRS Authority, on behalf of the Participant Nations, UK, France and Norway, demonstrates its confidence in JFD’s ability to provide a full and complete in-service support solution. The NSRS is a premier fly-away global submarine rescue capability which exists to give submariners the best chance of survival should a submarine incident occur. The five-year 3ISS contract will start in summer 2023 and has the potential to be extended to a total of nine years.

Having managed the ‘Second In-Service Support’ (2ISS) contract since 2015, JFD has demonstrated its proven operational excellence through assured availability of the NSRS. JFD’s 3ISS solution is rooted in intimate system knowledge and operational insight gained throughout the 2ISS contract.

JFD has unrivalled experience with real-life submarine rescue incidents, including locating and identifying the wreckage of KRI Nanggala, and deploying systems in support of the submarine Kursk and AS-28 Priz incidents. JFD builds upon the expertise and lessons learned from these incidents to continue to raise the standards for safety in the submarine rescue domain.

Richard Dellar, Managing Director, JFD said:

“We are extremely proud to have been awarded the NSRS 3ISS contract. It is a true testament to the breadth and depth of our talented personnel’s submarine rescue expertise and dedication. This decision firmly places JFD as the world leader in submarine rescue provision.

Safeguarding the lives of submariners around the world is our number one priority. The all-too-long list of submarine incidents globally poses as a stark reminder of the critical nature of the services JFD provides.

Our dedication to submariners is demonstrated by our continuous drive to set new safety standards and ensure rescue readiness 24/7, 365 days a year.

NSRS will continue to form a key part of JFD’s global submarine rescue community along with Australia, Singapore, India and the other nations we support. We are committed to work alongside the NSRS Authority to ensure the highest levels of operational assurance are always achieved.”

A world leader in the design, build and operation of submarine rescue systems, JFD has played an integral role in the UK’s submarine rescue provision since 1983 and the NSRS since it came into service in 2008.

JFD also has a comprehensive global submarine rescue infrastructure, supporting submarine rescue contracts with multiple navies as well as in-service contracts for the Australian, Singaporean and Indian submarine rescue systems.

In the event of a distressed submarine (DISSUB), any delay to the rescue operation can have catastrophic results. To locate the DISSUB and rescue the lives on board as quickly as possible, the NSRS must be maintained at a high state of operational readiness and specialist personnel must be fully trained in all aspects of a safe rescue.

JFD’s 3ISS solution builds upon the past seven years’ performance and the team’s extensive knowledge of global submarine rescue systems. Throughout the course of the 2ISS contract, JFD has undertaken 18 mobilisation exercises and its proven team has an established track record for delivery in their field.

This expert team, which is focused locally and supported globally, will play a key role in the delivery of 3ISS. Digitisation will also be incorporated into the 3ISS solution, with JFD at the forefront of digitalised asset management.

An established provider to over 30 navies worldwide, JFD delivers innovative and technically advanced submarine escape and rescue solutions. The company’s capabilities span the entire submarine escape, rescue, abandonment and survival (SMERAS) environment, and JFD is unique in being able to deliver solutions across all of these areas.

Release date: 29 September 2022

JFD achieves Deep Dive to over 600 metres in Norway during Northern Sun exercise

JFD has completed the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) exercise, Northern Sun, in Norway, including a Deep Dive to over 600 metres for recertification with Lloyd’s Register.

In April this year, the NSRS was successfully mobilised from Leith in the UK onto the Norwegian Coastguard Vessel, KV HARSTAD, followed by transit to Norwegian waters for sea operations.

In accordance with Lloyd’s Register requirements, during the exercise, JFD operators completed the Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV) Deep Certification Dive to 610 meters, inclusive of mating to the NSRS Deep Mating Target. This is the maximum diving depth of the SRV.

Owned and operated by the three Participant Nations, the UK, France and Norway, NSRS is a cornerstone of the international submarine escape and rescue capability, existing to give submariners the best chance of survival should a submarine rescue incident occur. JFD has supported the NSRS contract since 2015 and is recognised as a global leader in the design, build and operation of submarine rescue systems.

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John Burden, Head of Operations – Submarine Rescue, JFD said:

“Ongoing certification and classification is critical to the safety and performance requirements of NSRS. Completion of the Deep Dive to its maximum depth was successfully completed during Exercise Northern Sun to the satisfaction of Lloyd’s Register.

The exercise provided invaluable training benefit to the Authority and JFD personnel covering the Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV), Transfer Under Pressure System (TUPS) and Launch and Recovery (L&R) operations, which included dry transfer operations with the Norwegian Submarine.

The JFD team, its key delivery partners and the Authority continue to demonstrate and provide assurance to the Participant Nations that the system is rescue ready.”

Multiple successful SRV dry transfer operations were conducted with the Norwegian submarine involving the full rescue process of submariners entering the SRV, recovery to vessel and transfer to the NSRS Transfer Under Pressure System (TUPS). The opportunity to perform a full rescue including crew transfer is of significant training benefit to JFD and NSRS Authority operators, and Participant Nations medical staff.

The Rescue System was demobilised in Bergan, Norway, prior to being transported by road back to the UK.

JFD is an established provider to 80 countries and 33 navies worldwide and supports multiple submarine rescue systems in service around the world. At the forefront of the submarine rescue domain, JFD delivers assured submarine rescue readiness (98%+) to global navies. Exercises such as Northern Sun further strengthen JFD’s unique capability and ability to deliver an assured service to NATO.

Release date: 22 September 2022

JFD completes timed mobilisation of the NSRS during Golden Arrow exercise

JFD has completed a timed mobilisation of the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS). This was undertaken during the Golden Arrow Submarine Rescue exercise held in March 2022.

From the Port of Glasgow, King George V (KGV) dock and with support from the NSRS authority, the NSRS Rescue System was embarked onto SD Northern River, followed by at-sea exercises in the vicinity of the Isle of Arran in Scotland.

In the event of a Distressed Submarine (DISSUB), it is vital that the NSRS can respond and mobilise to a Vessel of Opportunity (VOO) urgently to allow the rescue system to transit to the datum point as soon as possible. This exercise provided practice and training for the NSRS Authority, JFD and its suppliers, so that should a real-life incident occur, the capability is prepared.

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Gary Lindhofer, Head of Defence – Services, JFD, said:

“Ensuring the NSRS system can mobilise from the UK is critical to support the NATO Participant Nations – the UK, Norway and France. Exercise Golden Arrow is the UK exercise which involves mobilisation of the NSRS Rescue System to a designated vessel to provided assurance of this capability.

The continuous timed mobilisation enables the Authority, JFD and its supply chain to realistically conduct the critical installation of the system onto the vessel, providing significant training benefit to the team. From a management perspective, it allowed the team to implement its fatigue management processes to keep people safe.

At-sea operations provided valuable training to the Authority and JFD operators, covering Launch and Recovery, Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV) operations with target, and night-time operations.”

The Embarkation Phase, in which the rescue equipment is installed onto the vessel, was timed by the Authority and a total of 18 hours was worked continually. The purpose of such a phase is to safely simulate a real-life event in which sustained activity is required to mobilise the system to the vessel as soon as possible.

Across the mobilisation, over 60 people were involved in the Embarkation Phase, working to install the NSRS safely and efficiently onto the vessel. Coordinating an exercise of this scale requires a high level of experience, system understanding and technical skills.

Multiple Launch and Recovery cycles were conducted during the at-sea phase including capability demonstration of the Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV) dives to the Low Weight Target (LWT) set at 20 Degrees angle, to represent a DISSUB laying at an angle on the seabed. In addition, night-time operations were successfully completed so JFD operators could experience working in low visibility conditions where lights are required, providing additional training benefit.

Our expertise and capabilities within the complex and unique domain of Submarine Rescue are gained over 40 years and further strengthened through the completion of these exercises. This is why JFD is trusted to deliver assured submarine rescue readiness proven to 98% and support to 33 navies and over 80 countries worldwide.

Release date: 01 September 2022

JFD successfully completes NSRS Northern Crown exercise in Sweden

JFD successfully completed Northern Crown, a NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) exercise which involved mobilisation of the system onto the Swedish Navy vessel, HSwMS Belos, in September and October 2021.

The exercise is completed every two years as part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the NSRS Participant Nations and the Swedish Navy.

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Recognised as a global leader in the design, build and operation of submarine rescue systems, JFD has supported the NSRS contract since 2015. Although owned and operated by the three Participant Nations, the UK, France and Norway, the NSRS provides assistance to other navies through various MoUs.

The Submarine Rescue System and supporting equipment was transported by road to Karlskrona in Sweden, and then embarked and commissioned onto the Swedish Rescue Mothership (MOSHIP), HSwMS Belos. HSwMS Belos already has a Transfer Under Pressure System (TUPS) and Launch and Recovery System (LARS) installed, so interface equipment was used to allow the NSRS Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV) to be launched, recovered and connected.

Regular submarine rescue exercises are essential to ensure equipment and personnel can respond as quickly and effectively as possible in the event of a submarine incident.

Gary Lindhofer, Head of Defence – Services, JFD, said:

“The relationship between the Swedish Navy and the NSRS Participant Nations continues to remain strong and is essential for providing submarine rescue support and contingency.

COVID-19 prevented deployment of the NSRS SRV to Sweden over the past two years, so it was fantastic to return and conduct such a successful operation again. The Swedish vessel, HSwMS Belos, is an excellent example of a very capable submarine rescue MOSHIP.

Submarine rescue is a time sensitive operation, where every second matters. It is a critical requirement that in the event of a submarine rescue incident, there is an available Vessel of Opportunity (VOO) that can support the submarine rescue system. Completing exercises such as Northern Crown on an established MOSHIP significantly reduces the time to first recue and the risk of any delays – which can cost lives.

JFD is proud to work with the NSRS Authority to deliver the NSRS and to work with the Swedish Navy.”

JFD has a long-standing operational relationship with the Swedish Navy through James Fisher Defence, who merged with Divex to form JFD in 2014. James Fisher Defence designed and manufactured the NATO TUP Interface on HSwMS Belos, allowing the NSRS SRV to interface directly with the hyperbaric system on the vessel.

In 2011, JFD was also awarded a contract to deliver a 12-year Lifetime Extension and comprehensive capability and safety upgrade to the Swedish Navy’s Submarine Rescue Vehicle, URF.

The Northern Crown exercise included multiple operations with a Swedish submarine to achieve training objectives as required by the NSRS and Swedish crew.

The final activity of the exercise involved the airlift of the SRV and its supporting equipment by the UK Royal Air Force, using a Boeing C-17 Globemaster from Sweden back to Prestwich in the UK.

Release date: 21 July 2022

JFD completes three consecutive Submarine Rescue Exercises in Quarter One 2022

JFD has supported three international submarine rescue operations in the first quarter of 2022.

JFD facilitated these exercises across the globe against the backdrop of the ongoing Covid 19 pandemic, with one exercise taking place in Australia and two in the UK.

In the event of a Distressed Submarine (DISSUB), any delays to a rescue operation can have catastrophic consequences, so it is vital that regular Submarine Rescue System (SRS) and Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV) exercises take place. This enables equipment to be proven and personnel familiarised, giving the best possible chance of an efficient rescue operation should a real-life incident occur.

Ben Wright, Head of Capability – Submarine Escape and Rescue, JFD said:

“It has been an exciting and operationally busy start to the year for JFD, with three consecutive submarine exercises taking place across the world. Not only that, but JFD achieved some significant operational milestones for our customers, including beating timed mobilisation targets in Australia.

It is the breadth and depth of our expertise to plan and safely execute exercises globally, whilst navigating various international Covid 19 Government restraints, that makes JFD a world leader in the submarine rescue domain. Our personnel have extremely specialised expertise and having enough resource available at one time to support exercises intercontinentally is very unique. This further reinforces our confidence to deliver an effective rescue in the event of a real-life emergency.

We are proud to support these trials as we continuously strive to set new standards of safety and protect submariners.”

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In February, UK trials took place for the recently manufactured 3rd Generation DSRV (Deep Search and Rescue Vehicle), the third built by JFD within the last 12 months. This included the Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs), a local Dock Dip at the King George V Dock in Glasgow, and Harbour Acceptance Trials (HATs) at JFD’s site in Fort William. An Operations team, as well as the support shore and afloat team ensured the safety of these trials.

In March, a team of JFD’s experienced Submarine Rescue Operators undertook a seaborne operational training exercise in Australia on board Mothership (MOSHIP) MV Stoker. The exercise included a fully timed mobilisation of the rescue assets, ROV system, LR5 SRV certification dive and hyperbaric training with Royal Australian Navy Medics. The mobilisation time was achieved in 57 hours, this compared with the standard 72 hours is a significant achievement and testament to the experience and dedication of the JFD team.

At the end of March, JFD deployed the full NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) to SD Northern River, for undertaking exercises off the west coast of Scotland.

JFD is an established provider to 80 countries and 33 navies worldwide and supports multiple submarine rescue systems in service globally. At the forefront of the submarine rescue domain, JFD delivers assured submarine rescue readiness (98%+) to navies around the world, including a proven and tested submarine rescue capability to the Royal Navy and NATO partners.

JFD’s unique expertise and capabilities make navigating exceptional challenges, like multiple consecutive exercises, possible. JFD is continually striving to improve global submarine rescue and our practical and global experience, reinforced through regular exercises, enables us to lead the way within this specialist and critical area.

Release date: 01 July 2022

UK Trade Envoy Lord Ian Botham OBE Visits JFD Australia’s Submarine Rescue System

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JFD Australia was delighted to welcome the UK’s Trade Envoy to Australia, Lord Ian Botham OBE, to its national headquarters in Perth to visit Australia’s safe, proven and trusted submarine rescue system.

In a visit co-ordinated by the British High Commission, Lord Botham examined all aspects of the world class sovereign capability including getting inside the submarine rescue vehicle (a “mini” submarine) for a first-hand look at the technology used to transfer the crew of a disabled submarine safely under pressure to the ocean’s surface.

The free-swimming, piloted rescue vehicle is part of a fully integrated system that includes a state-of-the-art hyperbaric equipment suite that can provide life-saving medical treatment to submariners (the entire crew of a Collins-class submarine -up to 60 personnel -can be treated simultaneously).

It is one of only six air transportable rescue systems around the world, five of which are supported by JFD, including the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) which has been successfully delivered to the Royal Navy since 2015.

Ms Cathy Falkiner, Managing Director, JFD Australia, said:

“It was a privilege to host Lord Botham and to talk with him about the service we have provided to the Royal Australian Navy for the past 15 years and the many ways in which Australia and the UK can work together in the future to keep the world’s submariners safe, wherever they may be.”

Accompanied by a delegation that included British Consul-General and Deputy Trade Commissioner Asia-Pacific, Ms Louise Cantillon, and senior members of the UK Department for International Trade, Lord Botham also toured JFD’s advanced production facility, meeting JFD’s highly skilled team and inspecting specialised diving and rebreathing equipment that JFD produces to keep defence personnel safe underwater.

Ms Falkiner said:

“JFD holds contracts with some 80 nations and 30 navies and safety will always be our highest priority. To be able to demonstrate this commitment to Lord Botham and his delegation was a real honour and we look forward to welcoming him again in the future.”

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Release date: 24 May 2022

JFD surveys US vessels with the aim of providing further submarine rescue assurance to the US Navy

JFD has recently undertaken its first Vessel of Opportunity (VOO) surveys in the United States, on vessels whom may be designated Submarine Rescue Motherships (MOSHIPs) operated by/for the US Navy.

JFD was contracted to complete VOO assessments for the US Navy, including their dedicated rescue training MOSHIP, HOS Dominator, and a similar vessel, USNS Black Powder, one of four sister vessels operated by the Navy. Engineers and Naval Architects from JFD conducted the surveys which evaluated the suitability of both vessels to accommodate the compatibility with another Submarine Rescue System (SRS) operating nation.

Ensuring vessels have full technical compliance for embarking international SRS equipment is critical in the event of a Distressed Submarine (DISSUB), where not having a suitable host vessel available will likely result in catastrophic delays.

Greg Cotten, Head of Operational Capability and Technical Authority, JFD said:

“As a world leader in the design, build and operation of Submarine Rescue Systems, JFD is proud to have completed our first VOO surveys in the United States.

JFD’s experienced personnel, including Naval Architects, are on hand to help clients take proactive measures and ensure their vessels can host international Submarine Rescue Systems.

Supporting the US Navy with safeguarding against any potential delays in the event of a submarine rescue operation aligns with our commitment to improve submariner safety and preserve life in the event of a submarine incident.”

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Image Credit: US Navy

JFD can provide a range of services in support of MOSHIPs and VOOs, such as Ship Survey and Suitability Assessments, as well as operating a VOO Database Service which tracks and monitors suitable VOOs that can be called upon in the time of need.

Experienced JFD personnel will be taking their vast knowledge of submarine rescue to the Combined Naval Event (CNE), which will be held from 24th – 26th May this year at the Farnborough Exhibition Centre in the UK.

JFD are the SMERAS (Submarine Escape, Rescue, Abandonment and Survival) Partner and delivering a presentation on Wednesday 25th May at 9.30am: ‘Capability and requirements of Rescue MOSHIPs and VOOs to host Submarine Rescue Systems in the time of need’.

JFD will also be hosting an exclusive roundtable briefing discussing the opportunities of accommodating a Submarine Rescue System onto a vessel, as well as the challenges faced.

To arrange a meeting with a JFD representative at the event, please email jfdevents@jfdglobal.com or find the team at Stand 54. Click here to register for CNE.

Release date: 07 April 2022

JFD awarded contract by Navantia to support Spanish Navy’s new Submarine Rescue Mothership

JFD was awarded a contract by Navantia to conduct a Ship Survey and Suitability Assessment of the Spanish Navy’s new Submarine Rescue Mothership (BAM-IS).

Navantia, the Spanish state-owned military shipbuilding company, is in the process of completing the preliminary design for the BAM-IS. The new Mothership (MOSHIP) will replace the Spanish Navy’s existing vessel which is not adapted to host submarine rescue systems.

The contract gave JFD – a world leader in the design, build and operation of submarine rescue systems – responsibility for completing an initial assessment of the design, to ensure the new vessel will be capable of embarking such systems.

It is a critical requirement that in the event of a Distressed Submarine (DISSUB), there is an available vessel that can host submarine rescue system equipment, as well as support the other necessary aspects of a rescue. Not having a suitable vessel available will likely result in delays, which can have catastrophic consequences.

Greg Cotten, Head of Operational Capability and Technical Authority, JFD said:

“This contract highlights JFD’s position at the forefront of submarine rescue, and our commitment to keeping submariners around the world safe.

JFD is proud to work alongside Navantia and assist the Spanish Navy in taking proactive action to ensure that they can support international submarine rescue systems by assessing and surveying their Rescue Motherships or Vessels of Opportunity (VOO) which operate in the waters. With experienced operators and Naval Architects, JFD can be called upon to assess vessels for suitability and safeguard against any potential setbacks in the event of an emergency.”

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The current intention is that the BAM-IS will be able to host critical international submarine rescue systems.

As well as Initial Ship Survey and Suitability Assessments, JFD can provide a range of services in support of MOSHIPs and VOOs, including On Site Ship Surveys and Airport and Port Assurance Surveys. Alongside these capabilities, JFD also operates a VOO Database Service to track and monitor suitable VOOs that could be called upon during the time of need.

JFD will be taking its expertise in submarine rescue systems to one of the biggest naval events in Europe, Underwater Defence & Security, due to be held in May this year at the Farnborough Exhibition Centre in the UK.

As the SMERAS (Submarine Escape, Rescue, Abandonment and Survival) Partner and Round Table Sponsor, JFD will be presenting on the topic of ‘Rescue MOSHIPs and VOOs capability to host Submarine Rescue Systems in the time of need’, exploring the requirements of Rescue Systems and the likely scenario and mobilisation process onto a vessel.

JFD will also be holding an exclusive, invitation-only briefing, discussing the opportunities of hosting a Submarine Rescue System on a vessel, as well as the challenges faced.

For more information about the round table discussion, please email jfdevents@jfdglobal.com or visit the Defence Leaders website to find out more about Underwater Defence & Security 2022.

Release date: 22 March 2022

JFD awarded MOD Emergency Stores Support Receiving System contract

JFD was awarded a contract by the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD), to manufacture and supply critical Emergency Stores Support Receiving Systems for their submarines and Escape Training Facility.

JFD has designed and built Emergency Life Support Stores (ELSS) and Emergency Stores Support Receiving Systems (also sometimes referred to as ELSS pods and pod posting bags) for various customers worldwide. These Receiving Systems are vital during a submarine rescue event where they allow the transfer of ELSS assets, which include essential supplies to help sustain the health, wellbeing and environment for submariners within a distressed submarine (DISSUB).

Ben Wright, Head of Capability – Submarine Escape and Rescue, JFD said:

“JFD is once again proud to support the UK MOD and the Royal Navy with their requirements. This contract reconfirms JFD’s commitment to supporting the Royal Navy with developing a comprehensive Submarine Escape, Rescue and Abandonment Systems (SMERAS) capability. JFD’s Emergency Stores Support Receiving Systems are in operation worldwide on a variety of different submarine classes and are essential to receiving ELSS pods, which forms part of the Intervention Concept of Operations (CONOPS).”

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JFD’s Emergency Stores Support Receiving Systems allow the safe delivery and recovery of ELSS assets to and from a DISSUB’s escape tower. The Receiving Systems are secured in place by submariners before an ROV delivers ELSS Pods to the Rescue Escape Hatch. While the principal design remains consistent, the fitment of each Receiving System is tailored to the customer’s specific hatch type.

Once posted, and with hatches shut and drained, ELSS pods can be securely lowered into the submarine using the provided lowering mechanism, without the risk of flooding the tower.

Each Emergency Stores Support Receiving System is designed and built in compliance with ANEP/MNEP 85, and has been load-tested and certified for the receipt of a fully-flooded ELSS pod. Safety is further enhanced by the design’s dual-redundant load path and for ease of stowage, each Receiving System is packaged within its own case.

JFD provides fast, safe and reliable subsea rescue services, products, engineering services and training to 80 countries and 33 of the world’s navies including the Royal Navy, Australian, Singapore, India and South Korean Navies.

Release date: 03 March 2022

JFD signs strategic partnership with Blue Tide Marine offering enhanced maritime capability into the Americas in the subsea domain

JFD North America, a subsidiary of JFD Global, has today announced a strategic partnership with Blue Tide Marine (BTM), an undersea training and capability development centre for the Americas.

Through the partnership, JFD and BTM will be able to offer enhanced capabilities, as well as provide training and capability orientation services for the effective operation and deployment of underwater mobility solutions to the US market.

JFD have critical capabilities in the provision of tactical diving life support (TDLS), as well as mobility platforms for tactical diving vehicles (TDV). BTM delivers tailored maritime products and training expertise in underwater mobility and life support, with a focus on the United States. The combined capabilities of a JFD and BTM partnership will significantly improve access to products, services, training and capability development for customers in the government, commercial and recreational subsea communities.

Richard Dellar, Managing Director, JFD said

“We are thrilled to embark on this new partnership with BTM, collaborating to bring cutting edge maritime mobility and life support to the US market via JFD North America. The opportunity for shared learning allows us to further develop our underwater mobility capabilities and grow our operational knowledge and training services. This is in line with JFD’s commitment to continually set new benchmarks in the delivery of innovative technologies and training services that lead the way in safety and protecting lives at sea.”

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Bob Pudney, President, Blue Tide Marine said:

“The partnership of BTM and JFD is an exciting and powerful collaboration. We know that this enduring relationship sets an unprecedented standard in the undersea domain. JFD’s world-class equipment and capabilities coupled with BTM’s exceptional expertise sets a new bar for the industry. We are excited for our clients and the innovation the industry will see because of this unparalleled partnership.”

BTM will be joining JFD at SOFIC (Special Operations Forces Industry Conference) this year. SOFIC brings together 400 exhibiting companies demonstrating the latest in Special Operations Forces technology and is due to be held 16 – 19 May 2022 in Tampa, Florida.

JFD will be showcasing its Shadow Seal MK 1C TDV, a unique surface or subsea craft enabling the transportation of four tactical divers. For more information about SOFIC, visit the website here.

Release date: 17 February 2022

JFD to support Republic of Korea Navy during DSAR-5 Midlife Refit

JFD further strengthens their relationship with the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN), with a contract to supply parts for their Deep Search and Rescue Vehicle, DSAR-5, which will undergo a midlife refit this year.

JFD and the RoKN signed a contract for DSAR-5 in 2006, which entered into service in 2008 and has since been operating in Korea. JFD has been privileged to deliver the RoKN with parts, systems and services during this time.

This year, DSAR-5 is due to undergo an Overhaul Inspection and Major Maintenance Period, and in support, JFD has been contracted by AMC Co., Ltd. and DSY Co., Ltd. to supply a range of electrical and mechanical spare parts to sustain the system into the future.

Alistair Wilson, Strategy, Sales & Marketing Director, JFD:

“We are delighted to continue to offer in-service support to the RoKN, ensuring our submarine rescue systems are maintained to the highest safety level. JFD’s deep search and rescue (DSAR) submarine rescue vehicles are designed and built with over 25 years of submarine rescue operational experience. We are proud to be able to offer our customers with parts, systems and services such as training, alongside our innovative submarine escape and rescue solutions.”

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In addition, JFD signed a contract with the RoKN in 2018, to deliver a new Third Generation DSRV (Deep Search and Rescue Vehicle), which is due to commence sea trials later this year on the Korean ASR-II Submarine Rescue Ship.

The Third Generation Submarine Rescue System focuses on efficient design and optimising Time to First Rescue. The DSRV has been designed to maximise battery capacity and operational endurance, while ensuring minimal time is spent recharging the vehicle’s batteries so the DSRV can be quickly deployed in the event of an incident.

Danny Gray, Operations Director, JFD:

“It is exciting to have reached the point where we can start sea trials this year for the RoKN and our Third Generation submarine rescue system. JFD is at the forefront of submarine escape and rescue solutions that improve safety and preserve life in the event of an emergency. We continue to set new benchmarks and standards, and this continuous development is not only our pedigree but how we deliver long-term value to all of our customers.”

JFD is an established provider to 80 countries and 33 navies worldwide, as well as providing the NATO Submarine Rescue System. JFD currently supports multiple submarine rescue systems in service around the world, and delivers comprehensive submarine rescue exercises, such as the annual Black Carillion exercise with the Royal Australian Navy.

Release date: 08 Feb 2022

JFD successfully completes NSRS Golden Arrow exercise 2021

JFD successfully completed a comprehensive submarine rescue exercise to mobilise the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS).

The exercise, titled Golden Arrow, was the first deployment of the whole rescue spread since September 2019 and the first sea deployment of the new fibre optic video and voice communications network upgrade developed and installed by JFD.

Golden Arrow took place following embarkation at King George V docks in Glasgow and operating within the waters off the west coast of Scotland vessel SD Northern River. The full Rescue system was deployed including the Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV), Portable Launch and Recovery System (PLARS) and Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) systems.

This was the first sea deployment of the new fibre optic communications system developed by JFD. The system provides video communications between the MOSHIP Submarine Rescue Vehicle and the DISSUB. Golden Arrow successfully demonstrated the capability of the system between the vessel and the SRV providing clear video and voice communications between the MOSHIP and the SRV with the capability for communications down to 610m. This innovation allows submarine safety communications and the ability to pass vital information during rescue scenario clearly, giving the Rescue Element Commander, Medical Officer and Dive Supervisor eyes on interaction with Disabled Submarine (DISSUB) survivors.

Cdr Chris Baldwin, NSRS Operations Officer at the Submarine Delivery Agency:

“Exercise GOLDEN ARROW 2021 enabled the NSRS team to return to its programme of rescue exercises after the interruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Participation in such exercises ensures the teams operating the capability have practiced procedures and can operate effectively in the event of an operational submarine rescue situation anywhere in the world. The NSRS Operations Group, comprised of French, Norwegian and British naval and JFD contractor personnel, successfully completed the exercise objectives demonstrating the unique benefits of this Government owned Contractor operated capability”.

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Richard Dellar, JFD Managing Director, commented:

“Not only was Golden Arrow yet another successful NSRS exercise executed by the JFD team during challenging circumstances presented by COVID, it also provided the first opportunity to deploy at sea the new fibre optic communications system. This system provides a step change in capability for NSRS, which is now the only rescue system in the world with a continuous fibre optic link back from the SRV to the MOSHIP.

Exercise Golden Arrow once again demonstrated JFD’s ability to safely plan, manage and execute a complex large scale at sea deployment to the satisfaction of our customers in France, Norway and the UK.”

In addition, the exercise provided the opportunity to prove the competence of the JFD personnel who are responsible for providing 24/7 rescue readiness of the NSRS, giving peace of mind for the UK, French and Norwegian Navies and the wider global submarine community.

Regular submarine intervention and rescue exercises are essential for ensuring equipment and personnel are able to respond effectively in the event of a submarine accident, and in as little time as possible. This becomes the ninth successful vessel based rescue exercise for JFD throughout the course of operating NSRS, reinforcing its responsibility in assuring the operations team is fully trained in all aspects of a safe rescue.

The initial five-year contract for the provision of the NSRS by the MOD was extended to 2023, demonstrating the customer’s confidence in JFD’s ability to operate and maintain the system, which encompasses all aspects of NSRS operations and through-life-support. As part of this agreement, JFD continues to work with the authority to develop the system ensuring the highest safety standards are always achieved.

Release date: 04 February 2022

JFD wins Innovation Award for life-saving Diver Health Monitoring technology

KTP award winner Dr Fraser Stewart from JFD

Dr Fraser Stewart, a Biomedical Engineer at JFD, secured the win at the 2021 Innovate UK KTP Awards, held in September last year, for creating a prototype that revolutionises diver safety.

Led by Fraser, the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between JFD Fathom Systems and the University of Strathclyde won in the Engineering Excellence category for its wearable health monitoring solution for saturation divers.

The KTP created a standalone Saturation Diver Health Monitoring System prototype that continuously monitors the health status of a diver during hyperbaric evacuation and makes early detection of medical emergencies possible. This technology will transform diver safety in the global commercial diving industry by allowing crucial intervention before a potentially life-threatening incident occurs, improving the prognosis of the diver as well as helping to reduce burden on diver medics.

JFD has a long history of developing innovative hyperbaric products and benefits from their own onsite testing facilities available at the National Hyperbaric Centre. As part of JFD’s continued mission to set new safety benchmarks and protect lives at sea, actively under development is a Health Monitoring Platform with additional functionality, and the project plans to create different systems for in-chamber, lifeboat and underwater monitoring.

Dr Fraser Stewart, Biomedical Engineer, JFD:

“I was delighted to win the award and it is testament to a lot of hard work. Saturation divers operate in extreme and dangerous environments and are susceptible to numerous medical conditions. Existing diver health monitoring systems are reactive, used only once an emergency has occurred. Using Sensor and Artificial Intelligence expertise, the KTP developed a proactive solution that will not only improve safety in the commercial diving industry but also save lives.”

The prototype, consisting of a wireless, battery powered watch and accompanying software, can monitor a diver’s vitals and has successfully undergone hyperbaric testing and diver trials.

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Stuart Falcus, Capability Manager – Commercial Diving, JFD:

“We’re exceptionally proud of Fraser’s achievement and for JFD to be at the forefront of hyperbaric biomedical monitoring technology. The success of the KTP has kickstarted JFD’s pioneering biomedical innovation programme and we’re currently developing wearable health monitoring technologies that can be standalone or integrated with existing field proven products. We are encouraged that this is a topical conversation with a recognition for the needs and benefits for such technology which we plan to introduce to both the commercial and defence diving industries.”

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Release date: 01 February 2022

JFD welcomes RAdm (Ret) John Weale, CB, OBE, as Senior Defence Advisor

JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, is pleased to welcome Retired Rear Admiral John Weale, CB, OBE, as Senior Defence Advisor to support the company’s continued growth within both the UK and international defence markets.

RAdm Weale (Ret) has gained over 35 years’ experience within the Royal Navy, most recently serving as Rear Admiral Submarines (RASM). After his initial training in 1985 he became a volunteer for the Submarine Service and served in both conventional and nuclear submarines. After selection for the Submarine Command Course, he served on various further deployments and an exchange to the US Submarine Force before being promoted to Commander of HMS Trafalgar. He was awarded an OBE in 2008 during his time as Chief of Staff for the UK command of CTF158 in Southern Iraq. Following promotion to Rear Admiral, John assumed the role of Assistant Chief of Naval Staff Submarines (ACNS(SM)), Flag Officer Scotland and Northern Ireland (FOSNI) and RASM.

Mr Richard Dellar, JFD Managing Director, said:

“RAdm Weale brings a wealth of knowledge and experience gained over a long and distinguished career within the Royal Navy. We are welcoming him to JFD at an exciting time as our defence capabilities continue to grow and we have many exciting opportunities on the horizon. We have an ambitious strategy for growth across our core capability areas, and the expertise and practical experience RAdm Weale brings to the team will only help to ensure our success.”

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As the world leader in Submarine Rescue, JFD provides services to 80 countries and 33 of the world’s navies including the Royal Navy, Australian, Singapore, and Korean, as well as providing the NATO Submarine Rescue System with escape and rescue solutions. The company has recently restructured its global leadership team in order to strengthen its local commitment in both Australia and Asia. In addition to Submarine Rescue, the company is focusing on core capability areas in the maritime environment covering Submarine Platform Solutions and Special Operations. This will bring wider expertise together in the areas of Life Support Systems; Hyperbaric and Atmosphere management and Special Operations capabilities.

JFD are proud to provide a very high level of system availability and readiness across a number of critical systems for navy clients globally. This ranges from the NSRS NATO Submarine Rescue system through to defence life support systems.

RAdm John Weale, (Ret) CB, OBE said:

“I am delighted to have been invited to join JFD as Senior Defence Advisor to the Board. The company has a fantastic international reputation, committed to keeping submariners and divers safe, and is involved in some essential and special projects that have been the focus of my attention throughout my career. Located less than 30 miles from Her Majesty Naval Base Clyde, JFD is well positioned to support the Royal Navy’s Submarine fleet. I look forward to working with JFD team in support of its next growth phase.”

Release date: 08 December 2021

JFD appoints Managing Director for Asia to strengthen local services

JFD is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Sunil V. Uchil as Managing Director Asia. This promotion will not only strengthen relationships and enhance support for JFD’s existing clients in the region, but will also enable JFD to build long term and sustainable growth within these key market areas.

Sunil joined JFD in April 2018 as Head of Commercial Delivery for JFD Singapore and is currently Managing Director of JFD Singapore. He is an engineer by trade having attained his Shipbuilding Engineering qualification from India. With over 30 years’ experience across the Shipbuilding and Oil & Gas construction industries he has gained expert knowledge of Diving Industry operations through base / asset management and mobilisation roles.

As part of Sunil’s responsibilities as Managing Director of JFD Singapore, he has direct responsibility for the long-term submarine rescue contract with the Singapore Navy as well as overseeing commercial diving manufacturing and service contracts managed by the JFD facility in Singapore.

Mr Richard Dellar, JFD Managing Director, said:

“We are delighted to appoint Sunil into this position and look forward to using the breadth and depth of his experience to take our relationships across these key markets to the next stages of growth.

He has already proven to be a fantastic asset to the JFD team and his engineering and commercial background along with his understanding of hyperbaric environments is going to enable him to really connect with both existing and new customers.”

JFD has seen substantial growth across the region over the past ten years, notably the Indian Navy contract to deliver two complete third generation submarine rescue systems and a 25-year all-inclusive annual maintenance contract, delivered by our Indian Joint Venture ; JFDMIL. JFD delivered the systems in 2018 and over the life of the contract will provide training to local teams of engineers to maintain the systems, employing the knowledge gained through years of operating world-class submarine rescue services with navies across the world.

Mr Uchil said:

“I am particularly looking forward to developing the JFD relationship with the Indian Navy as part of our existing contract. This focus will enable us to further strengthen our in-country presence and leadership, consequently increasing our ability to better serve our customers.

“JFD is committed to continual improvement to further enhance the lives of submariners and divers and I am excited to build upon our local platforms in order to better understand and serve our customers’ needs through assured availability, support and trusted service.”

Sunil’s new role is effective immediately.

Release Date: 24 November 2021

JFD Australia announces new managing director in a further strengthening of its local commitment

JFD Australia, provider of the highly responsive, trusted and reliable submarine rescue system to the Royal Australian Navy, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Cathy Falkiner as its new managing director.

Ms Falkiner, previously JFD Australia’s business operations manager, will oversee the company’s continued growth in the nation’s defence and commercial sector as JFD Australia expands its commitment to local jobs, local manufacturing and Australian industry capability.

“Cathy has all the attributes of a highly successful leader and we are delighted to appoint her to this key executive role at JFD Australia,” said Mr Richard Dellar, managing director, JFD.

JFD is a global leader in subsea operations and manufacturing and Cathy will be instrumental in helping consolidate and further develop our strategic and regional partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.”

Chair, JFD Australia and retired Rear Admiral Dr Allan du Toit AM agreed:

“Cathy takes the helm of JFD Australia at an exciting time. She is an accomplished business leader with a tremendous amount of international experience across key global sectors including defence, mining services and manufacturing,” said Dr du Toit AM.

With that level of knowledge and expertise, Cathy was a natural choice to lead JFD Australia and we are delighted that she will drive JFD Australia’s strategic direction in an industry that is extremely critical to national security.”

Ms Falkiner spent 18 years in Ghana and Tanzania working in key executive roles in mining services, capital equipment supplies and manufacturing and, since returning to Australia eight years ago, has worked primarily in managerial roles in the local defence industry.

“JFD Australia has a fantastic offering as a one-stop shop to keep people safe underwater with specialised combat diving equipment, rebreathers and other life support systems,” said Ms Falkiner.

That ability to serve the needs of Australia’s Defence Force along with supplying the nation’s trusted and proven submarine rescue system, a vital sovereign capability, for more than a decade, really shows that keeping Australia’s defence force personnel safe will always be our highest priority.

To also have the opportunity to lead the JFD Australia team of some 100 highly skilled engineers, technicians and tradespeople at our Australian centre of excellence at Bibra Lake south of Perth and our advanced production centres in New South Wales is an incredible privilege.”

Ms Falkiner’s new role is effective immediately.

Release date: 12 August 2021

Minister for International Trade visits JFD

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, was delighted to host a visit from Ranil Jayawardena, UK Minister for International Trade, at its office in Glasgow on Tuesday 20 July.

Facilitated by the Department of International Trade (DIT) in Scotland, the Minister visited JFD’s subsea manufacturing headquarters in Inchinnan, Renfrewshire and learned more about the company’s emerging markets, along with its contribution to Scotland and international trade.

As the world leader in submarine rescue, JFD has been completing the simultaneous build of three submarine rescue vehicles (SRVs), a world first. While touring the facility, the Minister was able to learn more about this achievement and see the current builds first-hand.

Reflecting on the visit, the Minister stated:

“It was super to visit JFD, to see their great technology first-hand, and to discuss how future free trade deals will help drive demand and open new markets around the world.

Now we are an independent trading nation, the British Government is determined to break down barriers to trade, back businesses in their plans for growth, and create better, higher paid jobs – in every corner of the country.”

Richard Devlin, JFD Commercial Director, commented:

“We would like to thank the Minister for visiting JFD, his time was much appreciated. As a company that supplies globally, the support of the Minister, his office and DIT is invaluable, and always welcomed, in our ambitions to grow our business. We were immensely proud to be able to show the Minister our three SRV builds which showcase our expertise in the submarine rescue sector.”

JFD will continue to strengthen relationships with DIT to expand in emerging markets, for both commercial and defence diving, and increase international trade to benefit both the business and the UK economy.

Release date: 05 July 2021

JFD awarded capability support contract for UK MOD Astute class submarine

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has been awarded a contract, in excess of £20million, by the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) to be the provider of a novel capability support contract for the Astute class submarine.

The four-year contract, which has a one-year extension option, was awarded through competitive tender and commenced 1 June 2021. It is a long-term support contract to provide equipment-level in-service support including core and non-core tasking, and the provision of spares.

JFD’s main capability areas bring focus to the provision of this contract combining expertise for both onboard and offboard systems which demands a high level of through life support to ensure the capability is ready for operations; this is at the core of JFD.

The contract will be managed out of JFD’s Capability Support Hub located a short distance from HMNB Clyde. This unique facility possesses all the support capabilities required to ensure a guaranteed service to the UK Royal Navy’s submarine fleet. JFD has partnered with RB Safety Consultants (RBSC), a medium-sized consultancy with an outstanding reputation in the submarine enterprise for providing assurance oversight.

Richard Dellar, JFD Managing Director, commented:

“I am delighted to be able to comment on this first for JFD, as navies around the world continue to rely on JFD to manage and maintain critical life support assets at exceptional levels of availability. Supporting our defence customers through long-term strategic partnerships is JFD’s core business. Our global pedigree, together with our detailed knowledge, experience, and understanding of the capability has allowed us to prepare a carefully considered and innovative offer which will deliver a tailored fit-for-purpose solution, driving best value to all stakeholders.”

Capability assurance is provided by JFD’s carefully constructed and balanced blend of experienced and knowledgeable people; efficient systems and processes; and proactive management with streamlined decision-making. All of which have been purpose-designed with one goal in mind: to guarantee that assets are ready for operational requirements, whenever needed, without compromise.

Release date: 21 June 2021

JFD demonstrates world-class capabilities during successful NATO Submarine Rescue System exercise

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JFD, the world-leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully completed another mobilisation of the entire NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) Intervention system in Glasgow, Scotland. Conducted in March, against the backdrop of COVID-19, this latest Silverlink Local In-Water Training (SL LIWT 21) exercise, illustrates JFD’s resolve to overcome challenges.

The simulated Intervention Remotely Operated Vehicle (IROV) dives, led by JFD, are part of a series of training deployments for the NSRS designed to ensure the system is in a permanent state of readiness, able to be utilised at a moment’s notice by the NATO partner nations of France, Norway and the UK, which jointly own the system.

The exercise encompassed the entire NSRS IROV mobilisation process, including road transportation. With over 52 hours of diving operations and 31 dives conducted, the exercise also included the delivery of Emergency Life Support Stores (ELSS) pods to a simulated submarine tower.

Danny Gray, JFD Managing Director, commented:

“Successfully completing this exercise amid the global pandemic ensures that the staff are well trained and prepared to quickly mobilise in response to emergencies, while at the same time following COVID-19 regulations. This exercise demonstrated the capability of the NSRS Intervention System, and the JFD team. It instils further confidence in the system and our ability to deploy it instantly, anywhere in the world, in the event of a serious submarine incident.”

The exercise required JFD to demonstrate the NSRS’ full IROV capabilities, while maintaining the highest training and safety standards. Underpinning the capability was the training of additional personnel from JFD’s global pool of operators, demonstrating the breadth and depth of suitably qualified and experienced operators that JFD can call upon. The exercise also allowed the team to demonstrate, within a COVID-19 secure environment, operating the equipment after a period of maintenance and testing.

Robert Pickering, NSRS Project Manager, JFD, said:

“Fast and effective mobilisation of submarine rescue systems is paramount to a successful rescue operation and having the ability to quickly reach a distressed submarine anywhere in the world whilst maintaining optimum operational capability is critical to protecting human life at sea. Intervention systems are the first part of the submarine rescue exercise that allow an assessment of the submarine and submariners to be made which then influence the rescue plans. Ensuring that the system, and team, are fully competent through training exercises such as SL LIWT 21 allows us to be prepared in the event of a real-life emergency.”

JFD has undertaken several successful NSRS exercises since 2015, when it was awarded the original five-year contract to manage NSRS. This has since been extended to 2023, demonstrating the customer’s confidence in JFD’s ability to operate and maintain the system, which encompasses all aspects of NSRS operations and through-life-support. As part of this agreement, JFD continues to work with the authority to develop the system ensuring the highest safety standards are always achieved.

In addition to operating five of the world’s submarine rescue systems, JFD has also been progressing a world first with the simultaneous build of three submarine rescue vehicles (SRVs) at its Inchinnan, Glasgow facility.

Release date: 15 June 2021

JFD is developing a state-of-the-art communications upgrade for the NATO Submarine Rescue System

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has developed a fibre optic video and voice communications network upgrade to the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) and is waiting to conduct sea trials of the system.

For the first time, the system will provide visual communications between the submarine rescue vehicle, the dive supervisor and the bridge commander, all from the vessel deck. This offering combines the heritage of JFD with the fibre optic technology from Fathom Systems (part of JFD), a leading provider of diver communications, for the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD).

This new system has been specifically designed and built to allow the command team on the surface, notably hyperbaric doctors, to monitor and initially assess rescuees in the rescue chamber from the moment they leave their host submarine. Using high quality video and audio, the rescue forces on the surface will be able to communicate directly with the rescuees and onboard attendants prior to the ascent to the surface as well as preparing the transfer under pressure (TUP) complex for their arrival and treatment with predetermined information on their health and status. The ability to prepare the TUP, allowing treatment to be ready, increases the chances of survival. It will allow for swift processing of patients into the TUP complex enabling a faster turnaround time for the submersible to undertake further rescue cycles.

Danny Gray, JFD Managing Director, stated:

“This is an example of the commitment by JFD to not only provide the required levels of support on the NSRS contract, but to continually strive to enhance the system’s capabilities with technology upgrades. We are looking forward to the equipment being tested and proven thoroughly at sea trails.”

The communication upgrade is a small diameter fibre line which provides minimum encumbrance to the Submarine Rescue Vehicle; unlike a tethered rescue vehicle, it has a negligible impact on its ability to manoeuvre and mate in high currents or shallow depths.

Through Fathom Systems, JFD was able to utilise their experience in underwater communications to further support their customer by adapting and enhancing the system’s current capability and by continuing to innovate in the submarine rescue domain. In parallel, JFD has also been progressing the build of three submarine rescue vehicles for prominent navies, due for delivery 2021 and 2022, alongside operating five of the world’s submarine rescue systems.

19 May 2021

JFD celebrates a decade of successful ocean exercises for Australia’s world-class submarine rescue system

JFD Australia – the trusted, proven and reliable supplier of the submarine rescue system to the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) for more than 12 years – is pleased to acknowledge a decade of successful participation in the yearly Black Carillon submarine rescue exercises off the coast of Western Australia.

Held each October-November in some of the world’s most challenging ocean environments, Black Carillons are designed to thoroughly test every aspect of Australia’s submarine rescue system in a series of scenarios that replicate, as closely as possible, a real-life submarine emergency.

These scenarios include several shallow and deep-water dive rotations to demonstrate the capability of JFD’s fully-integrated system which includes a submarine rescue vehicle (a “mini” submarine with pilot and crew), a transfer-under-pressure chamber to bring submarine personnel safely to the surface and a hyperbaric equipment suite where the submariners can receive immediate, and often life-saving, medical treatment once they are out of the water.

Importantly, with this capability the entire crew (up to 60 personnel) of Australia’s Collins-class (or future Attack-class) submarines can be rescued and treated at the same time if required.

“The highest priority for JFD has been and always will be to keep Australia’s submariners and other defence force personnel safe,” said Dr Allan du Toit AM Chair JFD Australia (and retired Rear Admiral).

“In an emergency situation, human life is the only thing that matters, that time to first rescue is critical and being on stand-by to respond and mobilise our air-transportable system with our team of highly-trained staff from JFD’s advanced operations centre south of Perth could not be more important.

“That is why exercises like Black Carillon, as tough and demanding as they are, mean that we are rescue ready at all times and proud to be the world’s ‘safe pair of hands’.”

In recognition of its decade-long involvement in Black Carillons, JFD has released a short video which encapsulates the system’s capability. To see full article and video CLICK HERE

6 May 2021

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JFD, the world-leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has been progressing the build of three submarine rescue vehicles (SRVs) simultaneously; a world-first in submarine rescue.

Due for delivery in 2021 and 2022, the SRVs are based on JFD’s third generation submarine rescue vehicles; tailored to customer specification. These SRVs will join the fleet of five of JFD SRVs in operation worldwide.

This unique capability has been possible due to JFD’s breadth and depth of expertise as world leaders in submarine rescue. This is the first time a build of multiple SRVs has occurred concurrently and despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, production remains on schedule. In parallel to these builds, JFD has continued to operate and maintain five of the world’s submarine rescue systems, including conducting multiple global exercises.

Richard Devlin, JFD Commercial Director, commented:

“Supporting our Submarine Rescue customers all over the world is part of JFD’s core business. Internationally, we are relied upon to deliver market leading submarine rescue equipment on time and without compromise. Our global pedigree, together with our detailed knowledge, experience, and understanding of delivering such complex programmes has allowed us to successfully navigate the challenges faced by all industries during the pandemic. Our teams have worked diligently with our local and international supply chain to ensure these submersibles can enter service on schedule”.

JFD is progressing the build of these systems at its headquarters in Glasgow, Scotland. Testing has been undertaken at its specialist facility, the National Hyperbaric Centre in Aberdeen, including pressurised testing on all sections of the pressure hull.

The SRVs will undergo factory acceptance tests before progressing to in-water harbour acceptance trials both locally in Glasgow and on location at JFD’s test site at Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. Upon successful completion of the harbour acceptance trials the SRVs will be ready to enter service.

JFD’s third generation submarine rescue SRVs are the most advanced in the world. An adaptable and reliable system, the technology has been developed over JFD’s 40 years of experience and it allows for maintenance while offshore with a minimal spares package. Lightweight, quick to deploy and with incredible endurance, this proven class of SRV is in operation worldwide.

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14 April 2021

Welcome to the 2021 Edition 1, of Divulged!

Inside this issue:

10 years of Black Carillon! Over a decade providing Australia’s submarine rescue service
500m Saturation Diving System. A world first and significant technical triumph!
NSRS contract extension awarded. JFD continue to operate NATO’s submarine rescue service

2021 Edition 1 – online version CLICK HERE

Release date: 15 March 2021

JFD establishes JFD North America to provide underwater capabilities to the USA and Americas

JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defense markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has announced the establishment of its office in the United States – JFD North America.

JFD North America has been established to provide JFD’s world leading sub-surface engineering, technology, and special operations capability to the United States and to the Americas through a dedicated entity.

The establishment of JFD North America allows access to the United States Department of Defense (DoD) opportunities alongside the ability to respond to requirements from the US Navy, US SOCOM, and other DoD offices that have interest in the underwater domain.

Danny Gray, JFD Managing Director, adds:

“The United States of America and the wider Americas region are of great importance to JFD, and the establishment of a dedicated office through JFD North America allows us to bring our three decades of underwater domain expertise to the market. JFD North America will have a US presence that allows for direct and local contact with its customer base. This is a major investment and commitment to providing support and services to the US Department of Defense.”

As industry leaders in the maritime domain and in the development and delivery of special operations capability, JFD’s portfolio and expertise is offered through JFD North America in the areas of maritime mobility, advanced diving and life support, specialized maritime extraction and submarine rescue.

In addition, JFD North America intends to establish a support, sustainment and training capability that will benefit the US DoD customers with direct and immediate support.

JFD North America has established US operations in Reston, Virginia and will be supported by JFD’s long-term partner in the USA, Chase Defense Partners. Chase Defense Partners has a strong core competency in US DoD programs and requirements for underwater systems and surface support activities. JFD North America’s capabilities are extremely synergistic and a needed asset to help expand US capabilities. Bringing new technology and capabilities to the hyper-enabled operator is of paramount importance to both companies.

JFD North America will also be supported by SOCOM business development lead Jim Emmert, and JFD’s Submarine Rescue Global Technical Authority, Dr Greg Cotten, based in San Diego.

5 February 2021

JFD wins at the Collaborate to Innovate Awards 2020!

We are delighted to announce that we have been named as joint winner in the Healthcare & Medical – COVID response category at the Collaborate to Innovate awards for InVicto™ ventilator.

InVicto™ was created in response to the UK government’s ventilator challenge in 2020, we are very proud of this innovative product and being listed as a winner in this category is a testament to the product.

Whilst the project was initiated by JFD, collaboration was instrumental given that a number of technology gaps were identified and time was of the essence. In order to utilise experts from a range of fields to create the ventilator, a consortium value chain was created which was initially based on skill sets and then matured into specific organisations. These were Frazer-Nash Consultancy, Angus 3D Solutions, Medical Devices Unit (MDU), Narayana Health and Innovhealth.

The InVicto™ ventilator is more advanced than CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) systems. The InVicto™ system can support global healthcare services by reducing pressure on intensive care unit (ICU) facilities, helping to save lives as the virus continues to peak in many countries.

Updated date: 16 February 2021

JFD unveils new ventilator system to support global battle against COVID-19

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JFD has responded to the UK Government’s Rapidly Manufactured Ventilator System call to manufacturers, to support the provision of essential medical equipment to the front-line NHS.

JFD has engineered the InVicto™ ventilator system, with extensive testing conducted in the JFD breathing laboratories.

JFD has designed the system with a specific focus on reducing the usage of O2. For InVicto™, it has applied its world leading expertise in breathing gas reclaim systems for the offshore diving industry. InVicto™ significantly reduces the use of O2 compared with other ventilators available on the market. Due to exceptional demand and logistical challenges in supply driven by the onset of the COVID Pandemic, JFD considered that O2 could likely become an increasingly scarce resource to provide at scale. Therefore, the design philosophy was to also produce a ventilator which operates with minimal O2 consumption.

The InVicto™ ventilator is a highly flexible, modular ventilator that is safe, efficient and can be manufactured and deployed rapidly across the globe to hospitals and care facilities.

At the heart of the InVicto™ device is a solid form mechanical logic flow device. This is lightweight and is powered by the breathing gas supply. It has no electrical or moving parts and no external power requirements. This enhances reliability and means that it can be quickly deployed and redeployed to where it is needed most and used in continuous 24/7 operation for long periods.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“Since the global outbreak of COVID-19, JFD has been working around the clock, utilising all our experience in developing breathing apparatus and life support equipment to design the best possible solution for patients, doctors and healthcare authorities around the world. As well as basing our design on a proven medical ventilator device, a key part of this project has been to take into account the likely pressures on O2 supply. Designing a ventilator with O2 consumption in mind enabled us to apply our wide range of skills in gas management and highly precise patient monitoring, which we bring from our diving systems and medical hyperbaric rescue capabilities.

“Our core purpose as a company is to protect lives. So, we are delighted that we have been able to use and transfer some of our experience into helping and hopefully alleviating some of the pressure that all the amazing health workers are under on the front line in battling this COVID-19 pandemic.”

JFD is in constant contact with all necessary stakeholders required to bring the InVicto™ ventilator to the global market. This includes the medical community, as well as relevant certification and government bodies.

Professor Philip B James MB ChB, PhD, DIH, FFOM, Emeritus Professor of Medicine, University of Dundee, said:

“The modular design of JFD’s ventilator provides real flexibility from a simple approach to further intervention depending on the severity of each patient. Critically, JFD has manufactured its product based on an existing ventilator design, which was proven and qualified for medical use in hyperbaric chambers. Fundamentally, we know that it works and can make an immense difference to patients that are suffering from COVID-19.”

The basic design of the ventilator that InVicto™ is based upon has been validated and used successfully for many years in hospitals around the world for treating critically ill patients (for example with extensive burns or serious trauma) in a 100% O2 environment in hyperbaric chambers. Leveraging this pedigree and the ventilator’s innovative capabilities, JFD has updated the system with modern monitoring technologies and numerical analysis, ensuring the new ventilator meets all required operational standards, specifically with treatment of COVID-19 in mind.

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Release date: 29 January 2021

JFD shortlisted as finalist in the Collaborate to Innovate Awards 2020

We are delighted to have made the shortlist for the Collaborate to Innovate Awards 2020, a celebration of the very best in UK collaborations & innovations in engineering over the past year.

JFD has been shortlisted in the Healthcare & Medical category for our InVicto™ ventilator. Created in response to the UK government’s ventilator challenge in 2020, we are very proud of this innovative product and our shortlisting in this category is a testament to the product.

Whilst the project was initiated by JFD, collaboration was instrumental given that a number of technology gaps were identified and time was of the essence. In order to utilise experts from a range of fields to create the ventilator, a consortium value chain was created which was initially based on skill sets and then matured into specific organisations. These were JFD Frazer-Nash Consultancy, Angus 3D Solutions, MDU, Narayana Health and Innovhealth.

The InVicto™ ventilator is more advanced than CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) systems. The InVicto™ system can support global healthcare services by reducing pressure on intensive care unit (ICU) facilities, helping to save lives as the virus continues to peak in many countries.

Now in its fifth year, the Collaborate to Innovate Awards was established to uncover and celebrate some of the UK’s most innovative and inspiring examples of technology-led engineering collaboration across a range of different disciplines and sectors. In a year in which the COVID-19 pandemic has brought many sectors of the economy grinding to halt, this year’s shortlist – arguably one of the strongest in the competition’s history – provides gratifying evidence that the UK’s culture of innovation and appetite for collaboration is alive and well.

The winners of this year’s awards will be revealed during Collaborate To Innovate Week, a special week-long programme of virtual festivities that will be hosted on The Engineer’s website from 1-5 February. You can find out about the finalists using the link: https://awards.theengineer.co.uk/finalists

Keep an eye on The Engineer newsletters and website for more details and to find out how you can get involved!

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Release Date: 9 December 2020

JFD conducts remote audit for Heerema Marine

In July we conducted a remote audit for Heerema Marine who required 2 x ROV audits to be conducted onboard their vessel by a third party provider, as part of the assurance process from their client.

THE REQUIREMENT

Heerema Marine’s client were contracting the vessel and ROV’s and needed to ensure they were complaint to IMCA R006 DESIGN Standards to support subsea operations.

As the ROV’s were based in Taiwan and the client Project Manager in the Netherlands, they required a remote audit method which JFD conducted using an auditor based in Singapore.

THE SOLUTION

JFD conducted the audit remotely using a modified IMCA DESIGN R006 template. Heerema Marine technicians securely transferred across pictures of the ROV’s and ancillary equipment including all certification on the systems to JFD for initial review in advance of audit beginning.

Once the initial information was transferred, the JFD auditor and Heerema Marine technicians were in regular dialogue to establish further certification, pictures with access to PMS being shared between both parties.

After the JFD auditor had gathered all required information, as outline by the IMCA DESIGN document, the R006 summary reports were compiled and sent for internal review, approval and submission to the client.

Despite the difficulties presented by the lack of global travel, the audit was completed in a timely manner and to the satisfaction of Heerema Marine.

Release date: 19 November 2020

Submarine hull hydro test

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The requirement

To provide an external Hydro test on a client submarine hull in our 100 bar work chamber, based at our National Hyperbaric Centre (NHC) facility in Aberdeen.

Due to the length of the submarine hull, the work chamber door had to be removed by our gantry crane then refitted once the submarine was inside the work chamber.

How was the test undertaken?

To support this test JFD had to remove the door of the work chamber in advance of the client’s equipment arriving onsite.

The full 300cm (internal diameter) x 800cm (internal length) and 63m² volume of the chamber was used in the test with only cm’s to spare from the end of the submarine and internal wall.

JFD used a 100 Tonne mobile crane to offload the submarine from the client trailer on arrival, load on to our trolley and into the chamber where it was strapped down to overcome the buoyancy.

The chamber was then filled with water and the pressure test conducted on the submarine to give our client confidence that their equipment could withstand the pressures it would be subjected to in regular operations, all within a safe and controlled environment.

Following the successful pressure test on the submarine it was removed from the chamber, loaded back on the trailer and transported back to the client. JFD were then able to re-install the work chamber door.

Testing outcome

The trial enabled the customer to test their equipment in a controlled environment, at a fraction of the cost it would be to do on location.

This was the fourth such successful test to this procedure with this customer in the last 5 years.

Pressure testing and trials

Test tank

Hyperbaric Testing Brochure

Release date: 30 September 2020

JFD awarded extension of prestigious NATO submarine rescue system contract

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has announced that it has been awarded an extension to its contract for the provision of the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The initial five-year contract has been extended to 2023, demonstrating the faith in JFD’s ability to operate and maintain the system, and encompasses all aspects of NSRS operations and through-life-support.

JFD has a strong legacy as an operator of submarine rescue systems and has been an integral part of the UK’s submarine rescue provision since 1983. The company has been at the heart of the NSRS since it came into service in 2008 as both an operator and equipment manufacturer. JFD was then awarded an initial five-year contract by the UK Ministry of Defence for the provision of the NSRS in July 2015. The latest contract extension will continue its In-Service Contract for the NSRS which includes extensive training across all JFD submarine rescue systems worldwide for the UK MoD and the partner nations of France and Norway.

The contract continues to include expert engineering and technical support to ensure high-level operation and maintenance of the system to provide 24/7 availability of the service, 365 days a year. The agreement also involves shared training opportunities to ensure suitably qualified and experienced personnel are on hand to perform rescue operations at short notice, to protect the entire global submarine community.

Defence Minister, Jeremy Quin, said:

“The safety of our personnel is of the utmost importance and I am pleased we have extended our submarine rescue capability contract with JFD, which will continue to support jobs in Scotland.

“This contract extension also represents our dedication to the NATO Submarine Rescue System and underpins our continued commitment to ensuring NATO submarine operations remain as safe as possible.”

Danny Gray, managing director, JFD, said:

“We are extremely proud to have secured this contract extension after five years’ of hard work to build strong relationships with the UK MoD and the participant nations of France and Norway. The extension reflects the MoD’s confidence in our ability to keep submariners safe, as well as the diligence with which we delivered the initial agreement.

“Our heritage is built on world-class safety and we are pleased our team continues to impress with their extensive knowledge, as well as their unwavering commitment to the highest possible standards of equipment maintenance, operational delivery and training. We look forward to continuing our work with the NSRS Authority and ensuring we are constantly upgrading processes, equipment and training to exceed market standards.”

Richard Devlin, head of defence sales, JFD, said:

“The decision to extend the contract with JFD is testament to the depth of our expertise, the quality of our training and the support infrastructure we have built, based on our strong foundations in submarine rescue. While establishing ourselves as the MoD’s trusted contractor to deliver safe and efficient rescue operations is key, we also continue to work with all partners involved in the NSRS project to provide capability enhancements and manage equipment obsolescence, both of which are vital to ensuring the NSRS service offers the highest safety standards in the world.”

JFD continues to ensure the highest levels of training and the ability to mobilise in extreme conditions, demonstrating the upmost commitment to the NATO Submarine Rescue System as well as the recognition of responsibility for assuring the operations team is fully trained in all aspects of a safe rescue. JFD maintains a state of readiness to respond at a moment’s notice.

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24 September 2020

JFD delivers full scale mock-up of Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV) for the Republic of Korea Navy

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has delivered a full-scale mock-up of its Search and Rescue Vehicle (SRV) for the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN).

The mock-up is part of a multi-million-pound contract for the design and build of an advanced SRV, awarded to JFD by South Korean shipbuilder Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME). It aims to ensure the highest standards in safety for submariners, confirming the capability of components ahead of the contract’s completion.

DSME is currently constructing a new auxiliary submarine rescue ship for the Republic of Korea Navy. JFD’s bespoke SRV, which is being designed and built according to a ROKN brief, forms a key part of this vessel and aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Navy’s submarine rescue service. The SRV is set for completion soon. Once in operation, the vehicle will be capable of rescuing the crew of distressed submarines at depths of up to hundreds of metres, and will be launched and recovered from the submarine rescue vessel via a moonpool.

The brief from ROKN has technical challenges that require innovative solutions. The JFD team are providing a full scale replica SRV mock-up to enable DSME to conduct factory acceptance tests (FATS) and harbour acceptance trials (HATS), of the innovative Launch and Recovery system onboard a new auxiliary submarine rescue ship, as well as familiarisation training for the LARS operators. This will ensure the compatibility of interfaces between the SRV and LARS ahead of integration onboard the vessel to ensure an efficient process.

Ensuring equipment compatibility when different elements are being delivered by a variety of providers is essential and highlights JFD’s customer-focussed approach, expertise and dedication to safety. JFD is a key member of an integrated team working alongside DSME and ROKN to deliver a ship, LARS and SRV that work together in harmony. The company’s previous experience of delivering numerous manned LARS and moonpool bell LARS brings added expertise to the project, helping to ensure the highest standards in safety for submariners.

Danny Gray, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“JFD first delivered the current Submarine Rescue Vehicle to the Republic of Korea Navy in 2008. Twelve years later, we are pleased to be providing additional capabilities which demonstrates our leading position in the submarine rescue market, as well as the strong relationships that we have built with our customers. The completion of the full scale mock-up is an important step in the delivery of this contract. It shows our experience, progressive approach to safety and our commitment to providing bespoke solutions for our customers – especially challenging amid the current unprecedented global impact of COVID-19, travel restrictions and social distancing.

“Following the delivery of the SRV next year, we will continue to work with the Republic of Korea Navy and its partners in providing a comprehensive training and support programme that will ensure that the submarine rescue operations are carried out safely and efficiently. Protecting the lives of submariners is of utmost importance to JFD, and ensuring our customers have the most advanced and comprehensive submarine rescue capability is fundamental to this. We are pleased we can provide innovative solutions to meet our customer’s requirements and look forward to the SRV becoming operational next year.”

Release date: 17 August 2020

JFD wins HSE Innovation Award at the Offshore Achievement Awards

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, is pleased to announce that its Compact Bailout Rebreathing Apparatus (COBRA) has won the Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) Innovation category at the Offshore Achievement Awards 2020.

The award celebrates an outstanding HSE technology, process or system, developed for the offshore oil and gas or renewables industry, and underlines JFD’s commitment to providing safe and effective capabilities for divers working in the world’s most challenging underwater environments.

The Offshore Achievement Awards, held virtually for the first time on Friday 14th August 2020, encourages innovation and collaboration in the oil and gas and renewables industry in the North Sea. COBRA was judged on several factors, including its contribution to individual, plant and operational safety.

Previously the industry standard for the provision of emergency breathing gas had been limited to just a few minutes, depending on the method employed and the diver’s operating conditions. This poses a significant risk, particularly when working in extreme conditions. Indeed, there have been incidents which have resulted in near-misses and could easily have become a fatality purely as a consequence of inadequate emergency breathing gas supply. It is a critical industry challenge that cannot go unanswered.

In line with this, and as a direct response to the urgent need to drive significant improvements in safety standards, JFD developed the COBRA rebreather set which provides an advanced emergency bailout provision that greatly extends the supply of emergency breathing gas, providing a supply of up to 33 minutes at a depth of 120 metres. COBRA is entirely mechanical with no complex electronic systems that could potentially compromise its safety and reliability. Compared to conventional bailout methods such as the 7 litre 300 bar twin scuba set, which at 120 metres provides seven and half minutes of breathing gas (based on a consumption rate of 40 litres per minute), the development of the advanced technology of COBRA is a significant step forward in improving subsea safety.

Danny Gray, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“We are extremely proud to win the HSE Innovation Award as part of the Offshore Achievement Awards 2020. The development of COBRA required an enormous team effort from design concept to production and we would like to thank the entire team for their hard work, passion and commitment. Winning this award is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team in designing the COBRA set with the capability to ensure the highest levels of safety and subsequently give divers confidence that they can conduct their operations in the safest conditions possible.

“We remain unrelenting in our pursuit to drive up safety standards across the offshore industry, even in the face of significant economic pressure resulting from the drop in oil price and onset of COVID-19. With the 100th COBRA set delivered this month, and the recent news that COBRA’s Buoyancy Jacket has received CE Certification, we continue to push the boundaries of subsea diving innovation, aspiring to drive efficiencies as well as potentially saving lives in emergency situations.”

JFD operates at the forefront of innovation in subsea operations and, with its pedigree, market knowledge and understanding. JFD invests in the development of comprehensive technologies and services that continually break new ground in ensuring the highest standards in safety and quality in protecting life at sea.

Release date: 14 August 2020

JFD produces and delivers 100th Compact Bailout Rebreathing Apparatus (COBRA) system

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has announced the production and delivery of its 100^th Compact Bailout Rebreathing Apparatus (COBRA) system.

The award-winning COBRA system was developed to provide a simple and reliable breathing system, offering a diver up to 50 minutes of fully independent breathing gas to return to the safety of the diving bell, leading the way in functionality and innovation.

As a direct comparison COBRA provides a supply of up to 33 minutes at a depth of 120 metres, compared with approximately 7.5 minutes on conventional bailout at the same depth. Therefore, COBRA allows the diver significantly more time to return to the diving bell, providing an unparalleled safety offering to the commercial diving sector.

Following significant industry uptake, COBRA systems are now being operated in many subsea sectors including the North Sea as well as Brazil, Singapore, Australia, the Gulf of Mexico, and other regions in the Far East. COBRA has also been introduced to the defence diving sector and is entering service with the Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) to support its saturation diving operations on board a newbuild submarine rescue vessel capable of diving to 450 metres.

Danny Gray, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“We are extremely proud of the COBRA system and the confidence it provides, which is showcased by its popularity in the global market. From great depths to low temperatures and limited visibility, the risks associated when operating subsea cannot be overstated. It is essential that divers are protected in the most hostile working environments in the world, and to guarantee this they need to have full confidence in their breathing systems.

“COBRA has been recognised for its innovative approach and for elevating safety standards across the commercial diving industry, all while offering a system that is easy to operate and maintain. The unique design of the COBRA system means saturation divers can now receive emergency breathing gas for an extended duration. With the 100^th set now complete and further orders in progress, we look forward to further extending COBRA’s track record as the safest and highest performing bailout system available to the commercial diving market.”

COBRA is the only commercial emergency rebreather system to have been granted CE marking status to NORSOK U101 (Diving Respiratory Equipment) & EN14143 (Self Contained Rebreathing Apparatus), which ensures the system is at the forefront of delivering the highest safety standards. This latest announcement follows the confirmation in July 2020 of the successful CE Certification of the newly-launched COBRA Buoyancy Jacket from the CE Notified Body, SGS.

In a further demonstration of COBRA’s industry-leading status, the system was awarded the Innovation for Safety award at the Subsea UK Awards 2019 and has been nominated as a finalist in the Offshore Achievement Awards 2020, with the winner due to be announced on Friday 14^th August.

Release date: 11 August 2020

JFD New Stealth CDLSE video out now

To conduct safe MCM-EOD operations, divers need an advanced rebreather capability and it is crucial that the clearance diver has complete faith in the rebreather they work with, to protect them and keep them safe. Any magnetic and acoustic signature could compromise their safety by detonating the ordnance in front of them.

With over 600 MCM sets in operation globally, our Stealth CDLSE rebreather is one of the most popular MCM-EOD rebreathers in service and completely non-magnetic and acoustically compliant.

CLICK HERE to see Video

Release date: 03 April 2020

Updated date: 16 February 2021

JFD unveils new ventilator system to support global battle against COVID-19

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JFD has responded to the UK Government’s Rapidly Manufactured Ventilator System call to manufacturers, to support the provision of essential medical equipment to the front-line NHS.

JFD has engineered the InVicto™ ventilator system, with extensive testing conducted in the JFD breathing laboratories.

JFD has designed the system with a specific focus on reducing the usage of O2. For InVicto™, it has applied its world leading expertise in breathing gas reclaim systems for the offshore diving industry. InVicto™ significantly reduces the use of O2 compared with other ventilators available on the market. Due to exceptional demand and logistical challenges in supply driven by the onset of the COVID Pandemic, JFD considered that O2 could likely become an increasingly scarce resource to provide at scale. Therefore, the design philosophy was to also produce a ventilator which operates with minimal O2 consumption.

The InVicto™ ventilator is a highly flexible, modular ventilator that is safe, efficient and can be manufactured and deployed rapidly across the globe to hospitals and care facilities.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“Since the global outbreak of COVID-19, JFD has been working around the clock, utilising all our experience in developing breathing apparatus and life support equipment to design the best possible solution for patients, doctors and healthcare authorities around the world. As well as basing our design on a proven medical ventilator device, a key part of this project has been to take into account the likely pressures on O2 supply. Designing a ventilator with O2 consumption in mind enabled us to apply our wide range of skills in gas management and highly precise patient monitoring, which we bring from our diving systems and medical hyperbaric rescue capabilities.

“Our core purpose as a company is to protect lives. So, we are delighted that we have been able to use and transfer some of our experience into helping and hopefully alleviating some of the pressure that all the amazing health workers are under on the front line in battling this COVID-19 pandemic.”

Professor Philip B James MB ChB, PhD, DIH, FFOM, Emeritus Professor of Medicine, University of Dundee, said:

“The modular design of JFD’s ventilator provides real flexibility from a simple approach to further intervention depending on the severity of each patient. Critically, JFD has manufactured its product based on an existing ventilator design, which was proven and qualified for medical use in hyperbaric chambers. Fundamentally, we know that it works and can make an immense difference to patients that are suffering from COVID-19.”

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Release date: 16 March 2020

JFD acquires Fathom Systems to expand product capability offering

JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, today announced the acquisition of Fathom Systems, a leading provider of diver communications, gas analysis, diver monitoring and integrated diving control systems for Diving Support Vessels (DSVs).

The acquisition significantly enhances JFD’s ambition to provide differentiated equipment which supports the safest diving operations in the most extreme environments. This deal will expand JFD’s portfolio of innovative diving solutions for the oil and gas, defence, renewables, decommissioning and aquaculture market sectors, providing greater value and a more diverse range of products to meet specific customers’ needs.

In addition to providing the latest diver communications, gas analysis, diver monitoring and integrated diving control systems for DSVs operating in the offshore oil and gas industry, Scotland-based Fathom Systems also offers a more diversified product portfolio supported by its expertise in electronics, software, diving physics and digital communications including HD digital video systems, ROV control systems, intervention tooling and ROV gyrocompass systems. This deal will ensure JFD’s latest generation of products benefit from Fathom Systems’ enhanced expertise in these specialist areas, with the latest innovations integrated into JFD’s new solutions.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“At JFD, we are passionate about providing our customers with the highest quality products through continual innovation and we are fully committed to developing the expertise necessary to improve our product offering. The next generation of diving solutions will require more embedded electronics and software solutions, which provide greater value and enhanced solutions to our customer’s most pressing challenges. This deal offers the opportunity for JFD to generate new growth beyond the core oil and gas subsea market and into wider customer segments, broadening the scope of our offering and our ability to increase the safety of divers working in the most extreme environments.”

Gareth Kerr, Managing Director, Fathom Systems commented:

“JFD’s established reputation as a world leader in the underwater field offers greater resources to further develop and exploit the latest innovations from Fathom Systems. We are really excited that our revolutionary products will soon be making a significant positive impact on customers in wider markets beyond the core oil and gas sector. Fathom Systems has been involved in the latest generation of new-build DSV projects and we have now extended our focus to further support surface-supply diving and to bring our technology to the Submarine Rescue market. JFD sets the industry standard for quality and reliability in these areas and with the strength of the Fathom brand added to the Group portfolio we expect to see significant opportunities for state-of-the-art integrated solutions. We are both proud and pleased to be working with and being a part of this global company going forward.”

JFD operates at the forefront of innovation and by using its market knowledge, geographical reach and long experience, the company continually looks to set new standards in the delivery of comprehensive diving systems, technologies and training. This acquisition cements the role of JFD in ensuring that products brought to the market are of the highest quality, safety and reliability while continuing to break new ground in technological achievement in the pursuit of best in class offerings to the market.

Release date: 21 February 2020

JFD Australia secures major contract extension to supply submarine rescue system

JFD Australia, a proven, trusted and reliable undersea combat support systems partner of the Australian Defence Force, is pleased to advise that it will continue to supply its world-leading submarine rescue system to the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) for at least the next four years.

As provider of this critically important sovereign capability for more than a decade, JFD Australia has been awarded a significant contract extension with the Federal Government to deliver the submarine escape and rescue service until December 2023 with an option to further extend to November 2024.

In Australia, submarine rescue involves sending a smaller or “mini” piloted submarine to a disabled submarine to rescue the crew on board and transfer them safely under pressure to the ocean’s surface where they are able to receive potentially life-saving decompression treatment in a specially-designed hyperbaric equipment suite.

Valued at approximately $A70 million, the changes through this contract extension will create at least four full-time defence industry jobs bringing to 10 the number of new positions JFD has created in the past six months. This extension will also see an increased focus in involving more local West Australian industry particularly in the specialist area of operating the system’s new hyperbaric treatment chambers.

Further, the contract also guarantees the continued employment of the workforce of up to 60, including highly skilled specialist engineers and tradespeople at JFD’s Australian headquarters at Bibra Lake in Perth who ensure that the submarine rescue system is “rescue ready” and on standby to respond to a submarine emergency anywhere in the world.

“Keeping submariners and other defence force personnel safe has been, and will always be, JFD’s highest priority,” said Mr.Toff Idrus, Managing Director, JFD Australia (and a former submariner).

“With our submarine rescue service being one of only four air transportable systems in the world, each and every one of us is focused on saving lives and we look forward to continuing to be a reliable partner for the RAN through the ongoing delivery of this proven submarine escape and rescue service.”

JFD Australia’s ever expanding sovereign capability, with its advanced production centre in Bibra Lake and manufacturing facilities in Kirrawee, south of Sydney and Warners Bay, near Newcastle in New South Wales has seen it develop into a one-stop shop for the delivery of safe, sovereign subsea systems that also include diving and special forces activities.

5 February 2020

JFD continues its investment programme in the Indian economy

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has delivered a new £1million contract to supply two sets of life-saving equipment to the Indian Navy, to further enhance the safety of submariners.

The life-saving equipment, including D-MAS HyperSat and hyperbaric ventilators, provides state-of-the-art patient monitoring to the Indian Navy’s highly advanced submarine rescue system, allowing doctors to monitor the health and well-being of submariners. The contract forms part of a wider commercial agreement between JFD and the Indian Navy, which aims to enhance the safety of submariners while consolidating JFD’s presence in India and investing in the country’s economy.

The newly delivered equipment provides medical monitoring solutions for saturation diving and hyperbaric chambers. This provides data of the patients’ clinical vital signs, heart rhythm, blood pressure, SpO2 and core temperature for specialists to assess and provide expert medical advice remotely. The contract for provision of equipment also includes a 5 year maintenance support programme.

This year, JFD will also increase its in-country presence in India to support a 25-year all-inclusive maintenance support service agreement signed with the Indian Navy in March 2016. This will involve a multi-million rupee investment in infrastructure, setting up a local Joint Venture with our Indian partner as well as training for Indian nationals that will enable them to become experts in the maintenance of JFD’s subsea equipment.

Giovanni Corbetta, managing director, JFD, said:

“Protecting the lives of submariners is at the core of our business. The provision of life-saving equipment delivered on time to the submarine rescue systems used by the Indian Navy further enhances their safety standards in the most remote and hostile environments. Providing the hyperbaric ventilators and D-MAS HyperSat further establishes our presence in India and we will continue to expand our investment, local presence and resources in the country in 2020 and beyond to develop our global supply chain to benefit our customers world-wide.”

The delivery of this life-saving equipment comes two years after JFD provided two complete Third Generation fly-away submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy. The systems, which were delivered in 2018, included all the logistics and support equipment required to operate the service. The equipment was designed, manufactured, integrated and tested by JFD prior to shipping to India. It also underwent a full series of advanced Sea Acceptance Trials (SATs), with JFD personnel remaining in India to work in close partnership with the Indian Navy to complete comprehensive training on the safe operation of the system. For this contract, JFD researched the local Indian supply chain to ensure the provision of high-quality products and necessary quality standards for the systems, which will continue to be explored throughout 2020 and beyond to expand JFD’s global supply chain.

BLACK CARILLON 2019 – WATCH JFD VIDEO HERE

Release date: 18 December 2019

Local jobs created as JFD Australia secures major defence industry contract

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New defence industry jobs will be created after JFD Australia, the proven, trusted and reliable delivery partner for undersea combat support systems, announced it had secured a major contract.

The $7.2 million contract to build and pressure test ring stiffened cylinders modelling submarine-like hulls was awarded by the Australian Government Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) and will lead to the creation of several new positions for project managers and skilled workers.

The hull is the most structurally important part of a submarine as it allows the submarine to withstand incredible amounts of water pressure as it dives deep below the ocean‘s surface.

Working with the DSTG, Australian partners and JFD’s global testing centre in Scotland, JFD Australia will assist DSTG to test and validate analysis methods and procedures that will be relied upon in the future for assurance and acceptance of the pressure hull design of the Australian Attack Class Submarine.

“It is impossible to underestimate the critical significance of a submarine’s hull or the expertise and experience required to ensure it is pressure tested to the world’s highest possible safety standards,” said Mr. Toff Idrus, Managing Director, JFD Australia (himself, a former submariner).

“Safety will always be JFD’s number one priority, notably keeping Australian submariners safe.”

“As the prime system integrator, JFD Australia will partner with other leading Western Australian defence industry firms over the duration of the four-year contract which will focus on testing three pressure vessels to simulate a submarine hull and apply pressure to the point where the hull collapses”.

It will be managed from JFD Australia’s headquarters and advanced production centre in Bibra Lake, south of Perth where a project management team has already commenced preliminary work on engineering and fabrication for the test cylinders.

Specialised transport crates, cradles and pallets and packaging needed for transportation will be made at JFD’s manufacturing and fabrication facilities at Warners Bay near Newcastle.

Importantly, JFD Australia will also draw upon the global experience of JFD, whose parent company James Fisher and Sons plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange and delivers safe under-water systems to 80 nations and 33 navies.

JFD’s world-leading hydrostatic testing facility in Aberdeen, Scotland, will be used for the final pressure tests.

“This is an excellent example of Australian defence industry companies working together to deliver a world-class service and with the added global backing of JFD through its world-leading capability in pressure testing,” said Mr. Idrus.

Release date: 12 December 2019

JFD named as a finalist at the Subsea UK Awards 2020

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JFD is proud to announce that it has been named as a finalist in the Subsea Company of the Year category at the Subsea UK Awards 2020.

The shortlisting underlines JFD’s market leading position in the subsea sector, as well as its commitment to providing safe and effective capabilities for divers working in the world’s most challenging underwater environments.

Held annually in February, the Subsea UK Awards highlight the achievements of individuals and companies throughout the subsea industry and bring together peers in joint celebration. The winner of the Subsea Company of the Year award will be selected based on a number of key performance indicators including the company’s commercial performance, long term vision and strategy, products and services as well as leadership.

JFD was previously awarded the Innovation for Safety Award at the Subsea UK Awards 2019, for their innovative bailout rebreather COBRA.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“It is a great privilege to be named as a finalist for the Subsea Company of the Year Award at the Subsea UK Awards 2020. The shortlisting is testament to the hard work and dedication of our team in providing divers and subsea operators with the skills, equipment, capabilities and training they need to ensure their safety during any activity.

“We wish all of the finalists the very best of luck and look forward to seeing everyone at the award ceremony on 12 February.”

JFD operates at the forefront of innovation in subsea operations and, with its pedigree, market knowledge and understanding, JFD invests in the development of comprehensive technologies and services that continually break new ground in ensuring the highest standards in safety and quality in protecting life at sea.

For full article CLICK HERE

Release date: 10 December 2019

JFD Australia’s submarine rescue system triumphs in international exercise

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JFD has again set new global benchmarks for international submarine rescue following the successful completion of rigorous exercises off the coast of Western Australia.

In a range of weather conditions, JFD’s fully-integrated submarine rescue system demonstrated its robustness and reliability in the triennial Pacific Reach, a multi-lateral series of exercises, hosted in 2019 by Australia with the participating nations of South Korea, Japan, Malaysia and the United States and many other observing countries from the Indo-Pacific region.

Designed to simulate a real-life submarine rescue emergency using Collins-class submarine HMAS SHEEAN and South Korean submarine, ROKS Lee Sun-sin, Pacific Reach, which this year was held in tandem with the annual Black Carillon exercise, tested all aspects of JFD’s rescue system which includes a free-swimming, piloted submarine rescue vehicle that is designed to locate and “mate” with a disabled submarine and a hyperbaric equipment suite to provide submariners with life-saving medical treatment once they are back on the water’s surface.

Importantly this year, along with a series of shallow exercises, the system also successfully completed two deep dives of 400 metres, securing annual certification for this critical sovereign capability.

The 26-day deployment also included a mass evacuation exercise conducted over 36 hours.

This involved six separate exercises as 25 Navy personnel rescued 45 submariners with a variety of simulated injuries and conditions and transported them under pressure to the surface for medical treatment in JFD’s world class hyperbaric equipment suite.

“Never before have we tested our system to the very limits of its design capability and I am delighted to say it performed exceedingly well both in its reliability and flexibility,” said JFD Australia’s Managing Director, Mr. Toff Idrus (himself, a former submariner).

“It was an extremely long and demanding exercise which included specialist equipment installation and de-mobilization phases and that there were no reportable incidents, accidents or injuries is a clear demonstration of our world-leading safety standards.”

“It was also extremely pleasing for our staff and supply chain to be complimented by global submarine rescue experts on the exceptional material state of the full kit and its ability to operate so seamlessly, it really did show that JFD is the world leader in submarine escape and rescue.”

Across the four weeks, which relied heavily upon the management and technical skills of JFD’s team of more than 40 engineers, operators and tradespeople, the submarine rescue system also successfully completed:

23 submarine rescue vehicle sorties
72 hours of dive time
75 dives
16 dives of the remotely operated vehicle
21 hours training
16 newly trained and qualified personnel in a variety of positions

“Keeping submariners and other defence force personnel safe has been and will always be JFD’s highest priority,” said Mr. Idrus. “At our Australian headquarters in Perth, we are proud to be “rescue-ready” at 12 hours’ notice to respond to a disabled submarine anywhere in the world. “But what is also critically important is having the opportunity to work with our regional partners and to demonstrate our trust and confidence in each other’s ability to carry out an extremely challenging rescue operation. “Each and every one of us is focused on saving lives.”

To see Videos CLICK HERE

Release date: 05 December 2019

JFD signs exclusive partnership with Innovation Maritime to provide world-class submarine escape capability

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, today announced a new partnership with Innovation Maritime, a non-profit innovation organisation developing marine solutions through applied research, technical assistance and information dissemination.

The partnership, which will support global sales of the Submarine Escape Trainer (SET), is part of JFD’s ongoing ambition to improve safety and preserve the lives of submariners across the globe. The partnership will further the ability of submarine operating nations to train their submariners for escape and abandonment scenarios in the most realistic environment possible.

In the event that a submarine in distress cannot surface, the options available to submariners depend upon the circumstances. They may either be able to wait for rescue or, if the circumstances require it, to evacuate via an emergency escape system. The SET is a diving bell equipped with a replica submarine escape tower. This escape training module is moved vertically in a water column using mechanical systems which allows comprehensive training to be carried out in a perfectly controlled environment. Through this new partnership, JFD will be able to offer the SET solution, or variants, to customers thereby broadening its escape offering. JFD can also tailor its provisions to customers’ unique requirements, offering the best capabilities on the market. The partnership continues JFD’s strategy to provide customers with a total support capability from escape training through to a full submarine rescue service.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“We are thrilled to have signed this new partnership with Innovation Maritime, which enables us to share our innovation and subsea expertise and provide, not just world-class training, but also escape also. As a company, we are committed to submarine escape and rescue and consistently deliver the best possible equipment and training to submariners, maximising their chances of survival in the event of an incident. The Innovation Maritime SET solution widens our provisions to the market and is a natural step following our recent partnerships with Aquacentrum Den Helder in the Netherlands and Y-40 in Italy. Thus further demonstrating our commitment to providing customers with the best possible capabilities to conduct essential training and a full end-to-end support capability for international navies and submariners.”

Sylvain Lafrance, Executive Director, Innovation Maritime, said:

“The JFD partnership is an important step for Innovation Maritime through which we will be able to provide a world-class submarine escape system capability, as well as advanced training, to the world’s navies. We have already delivered a SET to the Institut maritime du Québec for the training of the Canadian Navy. To date, more than 1,200 submariners have been trained since 2003 using this system.”

JFD operates at the forefront of innovation and is a global leader in the provision of submarine escape and support services, working with some of the most advanced navies in the world. Following on from strategic partnerships with both Aquacentrum Den Helder, provider of submarine escape and commercial diving training, and Y-40, owner and operator of the world’s deepest pool to enhance submarine escape training, JFD continues to set new standards in the delivery of comprehensive technologies and training that break new ground in safety and protecting life at sea.

Release date: 09 October 2019

JFD secures exclusive defence partnership in Turkey with Armelsan

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, today announced a new partnership with Armelsan, a leading Turkey-based designer and supplier of sonar systems for the Turkish Navy.

The partnership, which will see Armelsan become JFD’s in-country partner in Turkey for defence opportunities, is part of JFD’s ongoing ambition to improve safety and preserve the lives of submariners across the globe and improve advancements in defence diving technology.

Established in 2011 with offices in Ankara and Istanbul, Armelsan delivers a variety of sonar systems including diver detection sonar, hull mounted anti-submarine warfare sonar and mine hunting sonar, as well as ROV systems for military and civil applications. Through the new partnership with JFD, Armelsan will gain access to JFD’s submarine rescue expertise, which includes submarine rescue vehicles and submarine rescue chambers, as well as training for JFD’s defence diving products range. In turn, Armelsan will support the usage of JFD’s products by the Turkish market and Turkish companies seeking subsea solutions for international projects.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“We are pleased to have signed this new partnership with Armelsan, which opens up the Turkish defence market to JFD, enabling us to share our innovation and subsea expertise with another important global region. With complementing technologies, business values and a passion for delivering excellence, Armelsan is an ideal partner for JFD. By delivering subsea equipment to the Turkish market via our new partnership we can further deliver against our commitment to provide the best possible equipment and training to submariners and defence divers, maximising their chances of survival in the event of an incident.”

Yetkin Karakas, Chairman of the Board, Armelsan, said:

“The JFD partnership is an important step for Armelsan, through which we will be able to provide the Turkish market with a world-class submarine rescue system capability, as well as advanced training. We look forward to working with JFD to improve the safety of Turkish submariners, while supporting JFD in extending its reach in Turkey and beyond.”

JFD operates at the forefront of innovation and is a global leader in the provision of submarine rescue and support services, working with most of the advanced navies in the world. Using its market knowledge and long experience, the company continually looks to set new standards in the delivery of comprehensive defence diving systems, technologies and training that break new ground in safety and protecting life at sea.

Release date: 26 September 2019

JFD awarded multi-million pound contract for the design and build of submarine rescue equipment to China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co, Ltd

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, today announces it has been awarded a multi-million pound contract for the design and build of submarine rescue equipment, including advanced Deep Search and Rescue Vehicles (DSAR), as part of a comprehensive submarine rescue capability being provided to China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co., Ltd.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“This contract award underlines JFD’s position as market leader in the submarine rescue market, safeguarding the lives of submariners and providing a comprehensive submarine rescue capability to organisations around the World.”

Release date: 12 September 2019

JFD launches first dual mode bite mouthpiece that significantly enhances diver safety

JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has today announced a major safety upgrade to its Stealth rebreathers range that will significantly reduce the potential for incidents when switching to bail-out gas during mine countermeasures and explosive ordnance disposal (MCM-EOD) operations, as well as other underwater missions.

Launching at DSEI 2019, the new dual mode bite mouthpiece is an industry-first technology that enables divers to switch between JFD’s Stealth closed circuit mode and a bailout gas supply without having to remove their mouthpieces. This seamless transition between primary and secondary gas supplies significantly reduces divers’ risk of incident in the event that they need to switch gas supplies, and highlights JFD’s market leading position and pioneer of safety improvements in the military diving sector.

The dual mode bite mouthpiece eliminates the previous necessity for divers working in extreme and unpredictable conditions to manually remove their mouthpiece to change from rebreather to bailout gas. The new mouthpiece has been extensively tested to achieve full compliance to all relevant standards to 100msw and allow simple integration into all existing and new Stealth systems, which includes both Stealth CDLSE, Stealth SC and previous variants, further enhancing diver safety and system commonality that allows full compatibility with additional systems such as the External Breathing System (XBS) and Surface Supply Bail-Out System.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“The launch of the dual mode bite mouthpiece marks an important milestone in our ongoing programme of upgrades to JFD’s Stealth rebreathers range, all aimed at continually setting new benchmarks in underwater life support technology and diver safety standards. This latest innovation dramatically improves the outcomes for divers who find themselves without gas in the most extreme and challenging environments, enabling them to focus on their missions without being distracted by concerns over equipment reliability.

“Showcasing the dual mode bite mouthpiece during DSEI provides an important opportunity for us to showcase JFD’s latest innovations on one of the largest stages in the global defence industry. We look forward to meeting with visitors to discuss the important issues of operational performance and diver safety, both of which are fundamental to the successful completion of MCM-EOD operations.”

Release date: 02 September 2019

JFD successfully delivers world’s first 500m rated saturation diving products

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully delivered the world’s first saturation diving products rated to a depth of 500m.

The products have been developed as part of a saturation diving system for a leading offshore service provider. The development demonstrates JFD’s ability to overcome the most complex challenges and provide solutions that set new operational performance and safety standards.

The new products, which include environmental control systems, gas reclaim and life support products, provide the most advanced saturation dive capability in the world, allowing the most complex offshore operations to be conducted efficiently in the safest possible conditions.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, said:

“We are pleased to have reached this latest milestone in this one-of-a-kind deep-sea diving project which demonstrates JFD’s capability in developing technology and simulating performance in the most challenging underwater environments. The delivery of these world-first products is the latest demonstration of JFD’s world-leading R&D and innovation programme, and our ability to develop solutions that overcome the most complex of challenges for our customers. This is not only integral to everything we do as an organisation, but also the driving force behind delivering ever-improving safety standards for commercial divers operating in the offshore industry.”

To meet the requirement for 500m rated products, JFD updated its existing technology to provide greater performance capacity, as well as developing entirely new products, all of which have to be verified and proven at this lower operational depth, improving JFD’s offering to the commercial diving sector. The new technology utilised by JFD has enabled multiple products to be designed that are able to cope with increased pressure, increased ability to heat and cool the divers’ living environment and increased transfer of gas and fluids at this extreme operational depth.

JFD has previously modified its range of equipment to meet customer requirements. In 2014, as part of a saturation diving system built for the Russian Navy to support submarine rescue operations, JFD saturation diving products were enhanced for 450msw operation and incorporated within the diving vessel Igor Belousov.

Mr Corbetta added:

“The development of these saturation diving products highlights JFD as a leader at the forefront of innovation in the provision of commercial diving products. Using our market knowledge and extensive experience, we continually look to set new standards in the delivery of comprehensive systems, technologies and training that break new ground in safety and protecting life at sea.”

Release date: 26 August 2019

JFD acquires closed bell diving system to re-establish leading global saturation diving training capability

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets, and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has today announced that it has acquired the closed bell saturation diving system and associated assets formally owned by The Underwater Centre.

The acquisition will enable JFD to re-establish the leading global closed bell diver training programme – also known as sat diver training – and the only UK-based training capability that will fulfil an urgent market need for skilled saturation divers.

The future of the global offshore and subsea markets is dependent on the ability of saturation divers to conduct complex and demanding installation and maintenance operations in what can be extremely challenging environments. The re-establishment of industry-leading closed bell diving training in the UK will allow commercial divers to gain the skills and expertise they need to safely dive using a saturation diving system, enabling them to reach their field of work and return safely to the surface for every operation they conduct. Once established, JFD’s saturation diving training will be one of only two programmes in the world that will provide divers an internationally-recognised closed bell saturation diving qualification.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, commented:

“Re-establishing closed bell diver training at Fort William is very much in line with JFD’s ongoing drive to provide divers and subsea operators with the skills, equipment, capabilities and training they need to carry out their work whilst ensuring their safety at all times. Given recent growth in the industry, now more than ever it is essential that there is a training capability in place that fulfils an urgent need for skilled saturation divers, whilst ensuring that the highest standards in safety are always maintained.”

Before delivering closed bell diver training, JFD will make further enhancements to the system to further develop its capability.

The system also includes a Self-Propelled Hyperbaric Lifeboat (SPHL), giving divers the ability to undertake emergency escape training as part of the saturation diving course. JFD will be the only company to conduct emergency escape and evacuation training as part of its closed bell diver training, ensuring that divers understand the integral operation of a SPHL as part of a saturation diving system.

The diving facility in Fort William has been training divers for over 40 years and has long been seen as being one of the world’s foremost diver training locations. Building on its global reputation as a centre of excellence for advanced diver training, JFD’s acquisition of the saturation diving system and re-establishment of closed bell diver training will further solidify both JFD and the UK’s reputation as a leading global centre for diving excellence.

JFD operates at the forefront of innovation in subsea operations and has been a world leader in commercial diving and submarine emergency evacuation for many years. With its pedigree, market knowledge and understanding – in conjunction with the unrivalled expertise and skills of its engineering staff – JFD invests in the development of comprehensive systems, technologies, innovations and training that continually break new ground in ensuring the highest standards in safety and quality in protecting life at sea.

Release date: 14 August 2019

JFD acquires Ortega Submersibles to further enhance its advanced swimmer delivery vehicle offering

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets, and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has today announced its acquisition of all the assets, IP and designs rights of Ortega Submersibles BV, the Netherlands-based submersible boat designer and manufacturer.

The acquisition will enable JFD to expand further its offering of advanced Swimmer Delivery Vehicles (SDVs) and to develop new vehicles and capabilities in order to meet increased market demand for specialised small and medium-sized craft.

JFD, through its subsidiary JFD Ortega BV, will retain Ortega´s office and manufacturing facility and its whole team of designers and engineers at the established operational base in Enschede, The Netherlands.

JFD will also add to its existing SDV manufacturing capability based in Vaxholm, Sweden, and expand its offering to include new vehicle designs that will allow Special Forces operators to safely conduct covertly challenging missions.

Giovanni Corbetta, managing director, JFD, said:

“Deploying Special Forces operators into their field of operations always has its challenges, but when it comes to covert operations in the open sea, safe insertion and extraction to and from the field takes on an even greater level of complexity and importance. Divers can become easily fatigued and exhausted if exposed for long periods in the open water, particularly where there is a need for submarines and surface vessels to be kept as far away from the area of operations as possible in order to avoid detection. This often requires divers to swim great distances unless there is an SDV capability in place suitable for their mission requirements.

“JFD´s SDVs primarily exist to facilitate the safe insertion and extraction of special operations forces and equipment. They have been developed with the needs of today’s operations in mind, enabling us to offer navies a broad range of vehicles to suit a variety of mission types and deployment methods. Through our acquisition of Ortega Submersibles, we will be able to expand our SDV offering, particularly for fully electric smaller and medium sized boats, to ensure that Special Forces operatives have the means to safely insert and extract themselves from any operation and under any mission requirements. The partnership will strengthen the synergies between the two companies, whilst allowing engineers and designers to share their knowledge and experience to ensure there is an optimal SDV capability that meets the market’s needs for specialist submersibles.”

JFD’s advanced range of SDVs are specifically designed to facilitate the safe insertion and extraction of Special Forces and their equipment from different types of vessels, providing navies with the capability to deliver the payload (operators) safely to their intended point of insertion at a high level of readiness. In all JFD SDVs, operators are shielded from the water stream, enabling them to retain warmth and reduce the cold water temperature exchange rate. This minimises the physical impact of the insertion or extraction operation and ensures divers are able to keep fatigue to an absolute minimum.

Development, testing and trials of JFD’s existing range of SDVs has taken place in the Stockholm archipelago, the Baltic Sea, Portland harbour and the waters off the west coast of Scotland. Fully tailored to customer requirements, the vehicles combine the Swedish commitment to safety-led design and the ship-building heritage of the Clyde; all underpinned by a unique operational pedigree with operator input at all stages of this process. The expansion of this through the acquisition of the facilities and the team in Enschede will allow JFD to continue to build on this heritage.

JFD provides advanced SDVs to a number of notable navies. As an established capability provider, and operating worldwide, JFD has in its portfolio a comprehensive range of products, services and aftercare solutions for the defence industry, including Special Forces, law enforcement, counter terrorism, maritime protection and mine countermeasures.

EC Hambro Rabben & Partners acted as financial advisor to JFD.

19 August 2019

JFD signs strategic partnership with Y-40 to provide pressurised submarine escape training in world’s deepest pool

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JFD, the world-leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has formed a strategic partnership with Y-40, owner and operator of the world’s deepest pool (42.15m), to facilitate submarine escape training as required by navies worldwide.

The partnership is in line with JFD’s strategy and ongoing commitment to providing submariners with a total support capability from training through to the delivery of a complete submarine rescue service. The development further strengthens JFD’s presence in the Italian market, and going forward the company will expand the use of the pool to include training for military and commercial divers.

The new training simulates the experience of escaping from a distressed submarine in a safe and controlled environment. JFD and Y-40 will commence pressurised submariner training in Q4 2019.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, from JFD commented:

“We see great potential in this new partnership which allows JFD to provide pressurised submarine escape training at the Y-40 facility which is a central location accessible for many navies. It allows us to deliver against our commitment to provide the best possible training to submariners that will maximise their chances of survival in the event of an incident. This partnership means that we will have the necessary resources and facilities in place to equip submariners with pressurised training that delivers potentially lifesaving skills. In time, we look forward to extending our partnership with Y-40, so that commercial divers can also benefit from this world-leading training.”

Emanuele Boaretto, Architect and CEO, from Y-40 commented:

“We are pleased to partner with JFD on this new project, which will enable us to use the existing facilities at our deep-water pool improve the safety of the global submariner community. As the first and only deep pool that runs on thermal waters, we’re able to keep operating costs down. This means the training offered at our facility and delivered by JFD will be both affordable, as well as easily accessible.”

As part of JFD’s strategy to provide complete SMERAS (Submarine Escape & Rescue Surface Abandonment and Survival) capability support from escape training through to a full submarine rescue service, JFD has expanded its base of operations for escape training to provide further choice to the market. The recent partnerships with both Aquacentrum Den Helder and Y-40 in Italy allow customers the choice of pressurised training facilities at which they can undertake submarine escape training in the facility which best suits their needs and location.

JFD operates at the forefront of innovation and is a global leader in the provision of submarine rescue and support services, working with most of the advanced navies in the world. Using its market knowledge and long experience, the company continually looks to set new standards in the delivery of comprehensive systems, technologies and training that break new ground in safety and protecting life at sea.

12 August 2019

JFD SIGNS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH AQUACENTRUM DEN HELDER TO PROVIDE SUBMARINE ESCAPE TRAINING

Partnership in line with JFD’s strategy to provide complete SMERAS (Submarine Escape & Rescue, Abandonment and Survival) capability support from escape training through to a full submarine rescue service
Training customised for each client with access to the only non-military escape tower in Europe suitable for diver and escape training
New partnership provides submariners with realistic escape training within a safe and disciplined teaching environment

JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has today announced a strategic partnership with the Aquacentrum Den Helder, which combines submarine escape training, commercial diving training and recreational pools for public use within a single building. The partnership between JFD and Aquacentrum Den Helder will allow both new and existing submarine operating nations to train their submariners in escape and abandonment in the most realistic environment possible. The partnership continues JFD’s strategy to provide customers with a total support capability from SMERAS capability support from escape training through to a full submarine rescue service.

The facility, which is owned by the City of Den Helder, will provide JFD and its customers with access to a uniquely realistic experience in simulating an escape from a distressed submarine utilising an 11-meter-deep pressurised escape tower in a safe and disciplined environment. JFD will provide three-day courses for international navies, even at short notice, ensuring that the capability can be easily accessed, and that the training is tailored for each customer accordingly.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, from JFD commented:

“Ensuring the safety of submariners and subsea operators remains at the heart of JFD and the foundation from which our company has been built. Providing training in the most realistic environment and conditions possible is a critical element in ensuring that submariners have the skills and resources to survive in the event of an incident. The partnership with Aquacentrum Den Helder demonstrates JFD’s commitment to providing our customers with the best possible facilities and capabilities to conduct this essential training, as well as our focus on providing a full end-to-end support capability for international navies and submariners.”

JFD can also provide many other courses including Distressed Submarine Survival Training, Senior Survivor and Contractor courses. Other types of training include Pod Posting and diver exit and re-entry training. The facility also provides ‘train the trainers’ courses for other escape centres and nations procuring their own indigenous training capability.

Herbert de Vries, Dive Safety Manager from Aquacentrum Den Helder commented:

“Providing submariners with the most realistic environment to simulate submarine escape and rescue is fundamental in delivering the best possible training. Accommodating the only non-military escape tower in Europe which can support both diver training and escape training makes the facilities of Aquacentrum Den Helder unique to the region, and in partnering with JFD we can create a benchmark for best-in-class training for submariners and those that operate beneath the sea, often in the harshest of conditions.”

JFD operates at the forefront of innovation and is a global leader in the provision of submarine rescue and support services, working with most of the advanced navies in the world. Using its market knowledge and long experience, the company continually looks to set new standards in the delivery of comprehensive systems, technologies and training that break new ground in safety and protecting life at sea.

JFD successfully completes third generation submarine rescue system trials for the Indian Navy

JFD successfully delivered the second of two Third Generation submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy in December 2018 and final Sea Acceptance Trials (SATs) have been completed.

Under a £193m contract signed in March 2016, JFD was contracted to provide two complete Third Generation fly-away submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy.

The contract included Deep Search and Rescue Vehicles (DSRV), Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS) equipment, Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) systems, and all logistics and support equipment required to operate the service. The contract also includes a 25-year all-encompassing maintenance support service.

To watch the video CLICK HERE

Glasgow firm forms 24/7 worldwide submarine rescue service

Malin React teams up with underwater specialist JFD to put teams on standby

Glasgow firm Malin React has teamed up with underwater specialist JFD to provide a worldwide emergency submarine rescue service.

The agreement is designed to ensure rapid vessel mobilisation of JFD’s submarine rescue assets anywhere in the world, minimising the time to first rescue (TTFR).

Malin React, which offers ship mobilisation solutions, JFD, part of Cumbria-based James Fisher and Sons, will create a global pool of engineers on 24-hour standby to help commercial and military clients. Both firms have Aberdeen and Glasgow offices.

Richard Devlin, head of operations, EMEA and global submarine rescue at JFD said: “In the event of an incident, the fast and effective mobilisation of a submarine rescue system is a vital component of the rescue operation, and having the ability to quickly reach a distressed submarine anywhere in the world whilst maintaining optimum operational capability is critical to protecting human life at sea.”

Rescue submarine on its launch vessel is like something from TV show Thunderbirds

In the event of a submarine emergency, and assuming no dedicated rescue vessels are available, a fly-away submarine rescue capability will be deployed and mobilised to a nearby vessel of opportunity (VOO) which will then conduct a rescue operation for the distressed submarine (DISSUB).

The firms said that critical to the success of rescue operations is keeping the TTFR to an absolute minimum, ensuring that the rescue capability is always available and ready to deploy as quickly as possible.

Graham Tait, managing director at Malin React, added: “Through this agreement, Malin React and JFD are able to combine naval architecture, engineering and installation resources and processes, creating a mobilisation team with the broad experience and reach to provide global support to JFD and the world’s navies.”

Release date: 10 July 2019

JFD successfully completes portable HRF mating trials for TechnipFMC

JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets, and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully completed rigorous mating trials of its latest Portable Hyperbaric Reception Facility (PHRF) for TechnipFMC, a global leader in subsea, onshore, offshore and surface technologies.

The successful completion of the trials, conducted with two of TechnipFMC’s vessels, provides divers with the assurance that every possible measure has been put into place to ensure their safety should there be an incident.

In the event of an emergency evacuation, even once divers have reached the perceived relative safety of onshore via a hyperbaric lifeboat, they still need to undergo a thorough decompression process to safely return to sea level (Surface) before being exposed to atmospheric pressure and prevent suffering the potentially fatal effects of decompression sickness. Although the preferred option may be to transfer saturation divers to a fixed Hyperbaric Rescue Centre (HRC), often due to time constraints, and depending the location of the divers, this can be challenging. As a contingency, a portable HRF capability allows divers to safely begin the decompression process even if they are operating in a remote location.

Over the course of the trials, JFD performed successful mating exercises with the port and starboard Self-Propelled Hyperbaric Lifeboats (SPHL) of TechnipFMC’s vessels Deep Discoverer and Deep Arctic. Testing included lifting the SPHLs from a Harbour and also tran

sported by trailer to the PHRF at the NHC and mating with the PHRF using a precise hydraulic system to ensure there is a solid seal with no leaks, thereby facilitating a safe and effective decompression process. Critically, each separate mating exercise was completed in less than two hours which ensures that divers can be transferred into the PHRF as quickly as possible, an essential aspect of conducting safe and efficient rescue operations, and one that optimises the chances of returning the diver to safety.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director at JFD, commented:

“The health and safety of divers must always be the primary concern for any operation, regardless of how or where it is carried out. In order to protect the lives of divers it is paramount that there are emergency measures in place, supported by the necessary technical capabilities, and that this covers the entire rescue and evacuation process, from deep sea to the shore. This means providing divers with advanced and reliable technical solutions that will allow them to return to safety at pressure and undergo a safe decompression process.

“Incidents that can impact divers, who are often times operating in challenging environments and under difficult conditions, can quickly become life-threatening. Knowing that divers will have access to a PHRF within a short timeframe irrespective of where they are operating offers reassurance that all possible measures have been taken to ensure that divers can safely carry out their operations. These trials are part of an ongoing drive to realise significant improvements in safety standards across the global subsea industry.”

JFD’s portable HRF systems are easily transportable and are designed to suit a variety of hyperbaric lifeboat and HRC configurations to maximise the likelihood of a successful rescue. For over 30 years, JFD has played a key role in advancing hyperbaric rescue capabilities through designing and manufacturing the most capable land based system in the world, as well as proven Portable Hyperbaric Rescue Facilities (HRF) assets. JFD has played a leading role in the provision of hyperbaric reception services having maintained the UK’s only land based fixed HRF, at the National Hyperbaric Centre, since 1987.

Link to Video CLICK HERE

Release date: 08 July 2019

JFD successfully completes critical sea acceptance trials and training for submarine rescue system delivered to the Indian Navy

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets, and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully completed sea acceptance trials and training on the second of two advanced submarine rescue systems recently delivered to the Indian Navy.

The completion of the sea acceptance trials, conducted on the east coast of India at Visakhapatnam where the system will be based, marks a key milestone in ensuring there is a comprehensive fly-away submarine rescue capability in place that will safeguard the lives of submariners operating anywhere in the world.

Following on from a similar set of sea trials and training delivered to the Indian Navy’s west coast Submarine Rescue Unit at Mumbai last year, JFD has now completed the rigorous sea trials process for both systems. As a next step in the ongoing trials and acceptance phase of the delivery, JFD will conduct air loading trials of the key equipment into Indian Military IL76 and C17 aircraft, providing the Indian Navy with extensive rescue capabilities and ensuring the highest safety standards are upheld.

Throughout the sea trials process, JFD and the Indian Navy conducted multiple dives of the system’s Deep Search and Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) to both fixed and angled targets, as well as mating exercises with Indian Navy submarines including the safe transfer of personnel, testing all aspects of the DSRV’s capabilities. As part of the trials and acceptance process, a team of more than 30 experts trialled all aspects of the submarine rescue system including conducting multiple dives of the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to ensure accuracy in locating targets and conducting surveys, Side Scan Sonar exercises to accurately locate and identify targets, and Transfer Under Pressure operations, including mating to the three deck decompression chambers, to prove the capability of the system in conducting the evacuation of personnel at pressure followed by a safe decompression process. The trials programme proved the ability of the DSRV to operate effectively with multiple India Navy submarines maximising the chances of a successful rescue operation.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, commented:

‘The delivery and sea trials acceptance of these two new third generation fly-away submarine rescue systems ensures the provision of a highly advanced rescue capability, not only to the Indian Navy, but – crucially – to submariners operating all over the world. In undertaking this rigorous and thorough sea trials process, JFD has worked in close partnership with the Indian Navy in testing and proving the capabilities of the system whilst simultaneously providing the Indian Navy with the knowledge and experience they need to successfully put their skills into practice in the most urgent situations, ensuring they are able to conduct potentially complex rescue operations even in extreme environments.

‘The Indian Navy’s east coast-based rescue team, who will operate the system when in service, have after 24 days of intensive training at sea proven that they are equipped with the skills and expertise to conduct safe and efficient submarine rescue operations, should the need ever arise.”

Following the completion of the sea acceptance trials, JFD will continue to work closely with the Indian Navy to train the crew on the safe operation and maintenance of the system, allowing them to gain vital hands-on experience that will ensure the safe and effective operation of both systems for years to come. The acceptance process and equally intensive training programme provides practical experience for the full operational team of 36 individuals required to operate a submarine rescue system.

The DSRVs operating as part of the third generation submarine rescue systems mark a pioneering step-change in real world submarine rescue capabilities. The vehicles have been designed with a weight that optimises maximum payload whilst safeguarding the vehicles’ transportability, a critical factor in minimising the time required to mobilise the system whilst ensuring that as many submariners as possible can be rescued at one time, maximising the chances of a successful rescue. The DSRVs are capable of operating at greater depths than most submarine rescue vehicles, providing the crew with reassurance there is an effective and robust capability should an incident arise, even in challenging conditions and at great depth.

Designed to optimise speed and manoeuvrability – both crucial factors in conducting a successful rescue operation – the vehicles have the capability to mate with any submarine, even those that might be subject to inclination on the seabed, providing reassurance to both the team onboard the submarine and to those supporting on land that there is a rescue capability in place that can bring the stricken submariners to safety.

JFD is committed to ensuring that the safety of submariners is protected at all times, and has worked in close partnership with the customer to ensure that the systems are not only in place, but that the crew is confident in their ability to carry out safe and effective submarine rescue missions in the event of an incident.

Release date: 25 June 2019

JFD and Malin React sign global submarine rescue teaming agreement

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, will combine expertise and experience with Malin React, the world class provider of turn-key ship mobilisation solutions. The teaming agreement will ensure rapid vessel mobilisation of JFD’s submarine rescue assets to facilitate the fastest possible deployment anywhere in the world, minimising the Time to First Rescue (TTFR) and optimising the chances of a successful rescue.

In the event of a submarine emergency, and assuming no dedicated rescue vessels are available, a fly-away submarine rescue capability will be deployed and mobilised to a nearby Vessel of Opportunity (VOO) which will then conduct a rescue operation for the distressed submarine (DISSUB). Critical to the success of rescue operations is keeping the TTFR to an absolute minimum, ensuring that the rescue capability is always available and ready to deploy as quickly as possible.

To successfully and quickly deploy a JFD submarine rescue capability to the site of the DISSUB within the shortest possible time frame, a vital component in the rescue evolution is ensuring the fast and efficient installation of the rescue assets onto a suitable VOO. This complex engineering challenge will more than likely be done in very short timescales and demand the efforts of many multi skilled engineers to ensure the rescue equipment can seamlessly be embarked onto a vessel without any time delays. The teaming agreement with Malin React will ensure there is a dedicated and experienced global pool of engineers on standby ready to support both the mobilisation and embarkation phases.

Richard Devlin, Head of Operations, EMEA and Global Submarine Rescue at JFD said:

“In the event of an incident, the fast and effective mobilisation of a submarine rescue system is a vital component of the rescue operation, and having the ability to quickly reach a distressed submarine anywhere in the world whilst maintaining optimum operational capability is critical to protecting human life at sea. Time is of the essence, and JFD’s submarine rescue systems are specifically designed to get to the DISSUB in the shortest time frame possible. By having robust arrangements in place for selecting the most suitable vessel and installing the equipment as quickly and safely as possible, we can ensure that we are taking every available measure to reach submariners in time and bring them back to safety.

“In practical terms, effective mobilisations can be best assured by putting in place practiced, coherent and properly resourced plans which consider all variables. This includes the scope of the engineering task, deck preparatory works, the approvals process with the nominated classification societies and the required levels of information exchange with our clients, all of which are crucial to decreasing TTFR and hence increasing the chances of a successful rescue operation.”

Graham Tait, Managing Director for Malin React said:

“Through this agreement, Malin React and JFD are able to combine naval architecture, engineering and installation resources and processes, creating a mobilisation team with the broad experience and reach to provide global support to JFD and the world’s navies.

“By combining these capabilities with those of Malin React’s extensive Oil and Gas operations, we can support JFD ensuring readiness at immediate notice, which is essential for overcoming the challenges associated with deploying systems to support a rescue.”

Malin React, one of seven brands which form Malin Marine Limited, regularly undertakes ship-based equipment installations for international oil and gas customers, taking responsibility for everything from logistics to sea fastenings, class approvals to welding and load testing.

Release Date: 17 June 2019

JFD successfully completes comprehensive NATO Golden Arrow submarine rescue exercise

JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets, and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully completed a comprehensive submarine rescue exercise to mobilise the entire NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS).

The exercise, titled Golden Arrow, provided vital hands-on training that further optimises the crew’s ability to conduct safe and effective rescue operations, ensuring the capability remains ready to seamlessly respond to an incident anywhere in the world.

The Golden Arrow exercise involved the full mobilisation and demobilisation of the NSRS rescue system from Glasgow’s King George V Dock, as well as operational training including the safe launch and recovery of the submarine rescue vehicle (SRV), laying the mating target, and conducting mating and hyperbaric operations.

During the exercise, JFD also took the opportunity to formally demonstrate to the participant nations the ability to launch and recover NSRS’s submarine rescue vehicle without the use of a support boat, or deploying swimmers. The diverless launch and recovery system – known as “DLARS” – is a feature of several of JFD’s submarine rescue systems, and is key to being able to operate confidently and safely in higher sea states.

Cdr Chris Coles – NSRS Project Manager (on behalf of the NSRS Authority), commented:
“The French, Norwegian and UK NSRS Authority were very happy with the conduct of Exercise Golden Arrow as a demonstration of system capability. It is important to regularly reassure ourselves that our rescue system is both safe to operate and being operated safely. The demonstration of DLARS was a great milestone and improves confidence of our ability to work in higher sea states.”

Richard Devlin, head of operations – EMEA region, global submarine escape and rescue, JFD, commented:
“The Golden Arrow exercise provided JFD with the opportunity to once again demonstrate the world-class capability of NSRS. Our highly trained operational team worked around the clock to ensure the exercise was completed safely and efficiently, instilling further confidence for the participating nations of France, Norway and the UK such that, in the event of an emergency, the NSRS can mobilise quickly and effectively.”

Upon completion of the exercise, the mothership (MOSHIP) transited back to the disembarkation point at King George V Dock, from where the equipment was returned to HMNB Clyde where it remains primed and ready to respond instantaneously.

Regular submarine intervention and rescue exercises are essential for ensuring equipment and personnel are able to respond effectively in the event of a submarine accident, and in as little time as possible. To date, JFD has undertaken eight successful rescue exercises throughout the course of operating NSRS, reinforcing its responsibility in assuring the operations team is fully trained in all aspects of a safe rescue.

The exercise also offered the chance to demonstrate multi-national submarine rescue co-operation and provides a platform for sharing knowledge amongst participating nations.

Devlin, continued:
“Fast and effective mobilisation of submarine rescue systems is a vital component of successful rescue operations, and having the ability to quickly reach a DISSUB anywhere in the world whilst maintaining optimum operational capability is critical to protecting human life at sea.

“Exercise Golden Arrow was once again a demonstration of JFD’s ability to safely plan, manage and execute a complex large scale at sea deployment to the satisfaction of our customers in France, Norway and the UK.”

Release date: 08 May 2019

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JFD successfully completes critical subsea mating exercises for the second submarine rescue system delivered to the Indian Navy.

JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets, and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully completed critical subsea mating exercises, marking a key milestone in the sea acceptance trials of the various assets comprising the second of the two Third Generation Submarine Rescue Flyaway Systems delivered to the Indian Navy.

Through the course of the trials, and in close partnership with the Indian Navy, JFD carried out multiple dives including underwater mating operations with a bottomed submarine and conducting a safe transfer of personnel from the submarine to the Deep Search and Rescue Vehicle (DSRV), ensuring there is a robust and effective submarine rescue capability in place.

Throughout the sea trials and acceptance programme for the second system, JFD and the Indian Navy have conducted multiple dives of both the DSRV and the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), in addition to Side Scan Sonar operations, and pressurisation exercises of the Deck Decompression Chambers (DDCs). Deep dives were conducted to a depth of 805m for the ROV and 650m for the DSRV, as well as an angled targeted mating exercise carried out at 45 degrees, all of which represent significant ‘firsts’ for the second system. Following the completion of the sea acceptance trials, JFD will work with the Indian Navy to train the crew on the safe operation and maintenance of the system, allowing them to gain vital hands-on experience that will ensure the safe and effective operation of both systems.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, commented:

“JFD is committed to ensuring that the safety of submariners is protected at all times, and throughout the process of delivering two highly capable Third Generation submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy, we have worked in close partnership with the customer to ensure that the systems are not only in place, but that the crew is confident in their ability to carry out safe and effective submarine rescue missions in the event of an incident.

“The sea acceptance trials for the second system have been conducted seamlessly between teams operating in both the UK and in-country, and we are pleased to have delivered all elements despite the geographical challenges faced by the teams. The trials have proven the ability of the system to undertake rescue operations from a disabled submarine (DISSUB) at sea, providing the Indian Navy with a critical submarine rescue capability. The Indian Navy east coast-based rescue team, who will operate the second system when in service, have been active participants throughout this phase of the trials, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and expertise to conduct safe and efficient submarine rescue operations, should the need ever arise.”

Having already successfully completed harbour trials earlier this year, the second system has now completed a full launch deployment, dive and recovery as well as an underwater mating exercise, replicating the operating conditions of a real submarine rescue operation. The completion of vital elements of the sea acceptance trials represent a significant milestone in the ongoing delivery and acceptance of the Third Generation Submarine Rescue System, which is grounded in a rigorous trials and testing process that ensures the highest safety standards are upheld.

JFD successfully completes third generation submarine rescue system trials for the Indian Navy

JFD successfully delivered the second of two Third Generation submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy in December 2018 and final Sea Acceptance Trials (SATs) have been completed.

Under a £193m contract signed in March 2016, JFD was contracted to provide two complete Third Generation fly-away submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy.

The equipment was designed, manufactured, integrated and tested by JFD prior to shipping to India, where the final Sea Acceptance Trials (SATs) took place. JFD personnel will remain in country to work in close partnership with the Indian Navy to complete comprehensive training on the safe operation of the system.

The Indian Navy formally inducted its first DSRV into service at a ceremony in Mumbai, India on the 12 December and the second system was been delivered to the customer just eight months after the first system.

Chief of the Naval Staff for the Indian Navy, Admiral Sunil Lanba, commented: “The DSRV (induction) is a landmark event and it marks the culmination of years of focused efforts of the Navy in acquiring niche submarine rescue capability. With these capabilities, the Indian Navy has joined the select league of navies that operate such assets.”

TO WATCH VIDEO CLICK HERE

7 March 2019

Black Carillon 2018 – VIDEO RELEASED

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The latest Royal Australian Navy annual submarine rescue exercise, with its long standing submarine rescue enterprise partner, JFD.

Conducted the end of 2018 the exercise, in at times challenging weather conditions, the exercise demonstrated the world-class capability of the fully-integrated system that JFD provides to the Australian Government. This system includes a submarine rescue vehicle, a transfer-under-pressure chamber and a hyperbaric equipment suite to ensure that submariners receive the best possible medical treatment once they are back on the water’s surface.

“It is vital that our submarine rescue system can rescue and treat all personnel on board a Collins-class submarine and that is why these annual exercises involving the RAN, JFD’s 100-strong skilled workforce and our extensive supply chain are so critical,” said JFD Australia managing director, Toff Idrus (a former submariner).

“This was the first Black Carillon where we have tested the entire rescue system which also now includes the new hyperbaric equipment suite and the first time we have deployed to sea three times in one year, so there were some big milestones to achieve and I am delighted to say, we achieved each and every one of our goals.”

The RAN also commended JFD on a safe and highly successful Black Carillon:

“I was exceptionally impressed with what you achieved in the exercise and it was clearly evident that you had developed a strong sense of teamwork,” said Captain Geoff Wadley RAN, Commander Submarine Force.

“Speaking to international observers, they were unanimous in their praise for the exercise and the value they all got out of it, a job exceptionally well done.”

WATCH THE BLACK CARILLON 2018 EXERCISE – HERE!

27 February 2019

COBRA (Compact Bailout Rebreathing Apparatus) is a unique bailout system combining significant safety advancements while remaining easy to operate and maintain.

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Designed and developed by JFD as part of its Divex range of rebreathers, COBRA is a direct and highly effectual response to the urgent need for significant safety improvements in the saturation diving industry.

COBRA is the only commercial emergency rebreather system in the world to have been granted CE Marking status to NORSOK U101 (Diving Respiratory Equipment) and EN14143 (Self Contained Rebreathing Apparatus), leading the way in terms of safety and functionality.

The system supplies an extended duration of fully independent breathing gas in an emergency scenario, and is designed to be smaller than most bailout systems. Like all Divex breathing systems, COBRA is robust and reliable with a very low work of breathing.

CLICK HERE for full article

Release date: 29 January 2019

JFD launches first flexible rebreather capability for military combat divers

JFD, the world-leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has announced the launch of its Shadow/B defence rebreather, providing the market with a back-mounted rebreather capability, from their established product line, for the first time.

Combined with a conversion kit that allows divers to convert from a front-mounted to a back-mounted rebreather, the launch of the Shadow/B represents the latest in a long line of technological developments designed to enhance safety in military combat diving.

With the significant growth in navies looking to develop specific maritime skills for special forces, counter-terrorism and other areas of covert operations, there is a fundamental requirement for navies to keep their physical assets, including submarines and vessels, as far away from conflict as possible, and this is leading to the integration of swimmer delivery vehicles (SDVs) onto suitable submarines and other platforms. Traditionally, rebreather sets worn by combat divers are front-mounted which prevents the diver from being able to pilot the SDV that would facilitate their insertion into the operational field, creating the necessity to purchase multiple rebreather sets for the dive team. The JFD Shadow/B set and conversion option allows divers to adapt their equipment to best suit mission requirements, allowing them to carry out their operations safely and efficiently.

Danny Gray, Operations Director, JFD, commented:
“Our primary focus has always been to equip divers with the technologies they need to successfully carry out their missions, allowing them to dive deeper and for longer, but most importantly in the safest possible conditions. In the development of Shadow/B, JFD has proactively engaged with the end user to firmly establish the requirements and deliver an innovative solution that will be fit-for-purpose. The Shadow range of special forces equipment is designed to be modular, allowing divers to adapt to mission requirements and ensuring they have the flexibility they need to safely complete their operations. Our expert technical team worked to develop a practical rebreather capability to meet the evolving operational roles of the combat diver and significantly improve safety standards.

“We remain committed to investing in R&D that will drive the development of the innovative solutions our customers need. Providing divers with the flexibility they need to carry out their work is key, and our focus will remain on how to ensure we can best support divers in conducting challenging operations whilst always protecting their safety.”

JFD is working with the world’s leading navies in the provision of a comprehensive, total Special Forces capability, from rebreathers through to SDVs, as well as the integration with operational platforms, employing a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the entire mission spectrum to deliver innovative solutions that drive the highest standards in safety and operational efficiency.

This latest release enables Shadow to be a true multi-role system, with the ability to use a back or front-mounted configuration as required by use of a conversion kit. It provides flexibility for dive teams to ensure a safe insertion into the operational field whilst also carrying the equipment they need to carry out their mission.
Shadow/B follows on from the recent launch of Shadow NAV, an advanced combat diver navigation module. The Shadow NAV is fitted to a diver’s standard half mask and provides a clear visual display of a combat diver’s compass heading, depth, and time even in near-zero visibility conditions. The Shadow NAV represents a leap forward in capability for combat divers by ensuring they have continual visibility of accurate information. Through the Shadow range of innovative diving equipment, JFD is driving the highest standards of safety and capability in military combat diving.

Release date: 29 January 2019

JFD launches first flexible rebreather capability for military combat divers

Danny Gray, Operations Director, JFD, commented:
“Our primary focus has always been to equip divers with the technologies they need to successfully carry out their missions, allowing them to dive deeper and for longer, but most importantly in the safest possible conditions. In the development of Shadow/B, JFD has proactively engaged with the end user to firmly establish the requirements and deliver an innovative solution that will be fit-for-purpose. The Shadow range of special forces equipment is designed to be modular, allowing divers to adapt to mission requirements and ensuring they have the flexibility they need to safely complete their operations. Our expert technical team worked to develop a practical rebreather capability to meet the evolving operational roles of the combat diver and significantly improve safety standards.

“We remain committed to investing in R&D that will drive the development of the innovative solutions our customers need. Providing divers with the flexibility they need to carry out their work is key, and our focus will remain on how to ensure we can best support divers in conducting challenging operations whilst always protecting their safety.”

Release date: 24 January 2019

JFD wins multi-million pound contract to supply advanced submarine rescue vehicle to the Republic of Korea Navy

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has been awarded a multi-million pound contract for the design and build of an advanced Deep Search and Rescue Vehicle (DSRV), as part of a comprehensive submarine rescue capability being provided to the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN).

The contract, awarded by South Korean shipbuilder Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME), will ensure the provision of an advanced and highly capable submarine rescue vehicle to the South Korean Navy that will ensure the highest standards in safety for submariners.

Following the recent contract award to DSME for the construction of a new auxiliary submarine rescue ship (ASR-II) for the RoKN, JFD will design and build a DSRV bespoke to the requirements of the customer that will enhance the operational capabilities of its submarine rescue service. Once in operation, the DSRV will be launched and recovered from the submarine rescue vessel via a ‘moonpool’, through which the DSRV will be deployed to rescue the crews of distressed submarines at depths of up to 500m, and in waves as tall as four metres. This method of launch and recovery minimises the impact of weather and sea states on the ability to operate the DSRV, maximising the chances of a successful submarine rescue operation, further safeguarding the lives of submariners. JFD has extensive experience in launch and recovery via a ‘moonpool’ through its years of delivering advanced saturation diving systems and diving bells through moonpools.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD, said:
“We are proud to have worked with the RoKN for a number of years in supporting the provision of its submarine rescue service. Protecting the lives of submariners is of utmost importance to JFD, and ensuring our customers have the most advanced and comprehensive submarine rescue capability is fundamental to this. The new DSRV will provide an advanced capability to the RoKN that will ensure the lives of those operating subsea are protected at all times.”

Due to be delivered to the customer in 2021, the DSRV will undergo a comprehensive series of tests and trials including factory, harbour, and sea acceptance trials, before entering operational service. The DSRV has been designed to maximise battery capacity and operational endurance, increasing the chances of a successful rescue operation. This is also ensures minimal time is spent recharging the vehicle’s batteries, ensuring the DSRV can be deployed quickly in the event of an incident.

In the development of its advanced DSRV design, JFD employed its extensive experience from the development of its multiple advanced submarine rescue systems currently in operation around the world, in order to optimise the design to meet the bespoke requirements of the RoKN.

The RoKN currently operates a multipurpose submarine rescue ship – the 103 m long, 4,300-tonne RoKS Cheonghaejin. Once in operation, the new ASR-II vessel will replace the current Cheonghaejin, in operation since 1996. JFD has supported an advanced submarine rescue capability for over nine years, and following delivery of the new DSRV will continue to work with the RoKN and its partners in providing a comprehensive training and support programme that will ensure that submarine rescue operations are carried out safely and efficiently.

James Fisher and Sons CEO Nick Henry, said:
“JFD first delivered a deep search and rescue system to the South Korean navy in 2009. This additional capability further demonstrates our position of market leadership in the submarine rescue market, as well as the strong relationships that we build with our customers.

“The vehicle is a variation of the landmark third-generation vehicles recently delivered to the Indian navy.”

In December 2018, JFD successfully delivered the second of two Third Generation submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy. The delivery of the second system represents a significant milestone in the provision of a comprehensive submarine rescue capability that will enhance safety for submariners.

JFD provides fast, safe and reliable subsea rescue services, solutions products, engineering services and training to 80 countries and 33 of the world’s navies including the Royal Navy, Australian, Singapore, and South Korean Navies, as well as providing the NATO Submarine Rescue System. In parallel with the delivery of the second system to the Indian Navy, JFD has continued to support multiple submarine rescue systems in service around the world, recently executing a successful Black Carillon 2018 comprehensive submarine rescue exercise with the Australian Navy, as well as conducting preparations for the mid-life upgrade of the Singaporean system.

Release date: 19 December 2018

JFD successfully completes second advanced third generation submarine rescue system for the Indian Navy

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully delivered the second of two Third Generation submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy. The delivery of the second system represents a significant milestone in the provision of a comprehensive submarine rescue capability that will enhance safety for submariners.

JFD provides fast, safe and reliable subsea rescue services, solutions, products, engineering services and training to 80 countries and 33 of the world’s navies including the Royal Navy, Australian, Singapore, and Korean Navies, as well as providing the NATO Submarine Rescue System. In parallel with the delivery of the second system, and whilst ensuring the seamless delivery of its global submarine rescue services already in operation, JFD has continued to support multiple submarine rescue systems in service around the world, executing a successful Black Carillon 18 comprehensive submarine rescue exercise with the Australian Navy, as well as conducting sea trails and air transportation trials for the first system for the Indian Navy, and conducting preparations for the mid-life upgrade of the Singaporean system.

Under a £193m contract, JFD is providing two complete Third Generation fly-away submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy, including Deep Search and Rescue Vehicles (DSRV), Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS) equipment, Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) systems, and all logistics and support equipment required to operate the service. The contract also includes a 25-year all-encompassing maintenance support service. The equipment was designed, manufactured, integrated and tested by JFD prior to shipping to India, with the second system expected to arrive in country in January 2019. The system will be mobilised onto the rescue vessel in order to begin a full series of Sea Acceptance Trials (SATs), with JFD personnel remaining in country to work in close partnership with the Indian Navy to complete comprehensive training on the safe operation of the system.

Giovanni Corbetta, JFD Managing Director, commented:
“JFD is pleased to have successfully completed the delivery of the second advanced submarine rescue system to the Indian Navy. The Third Generation system represents a step-change in real world submarine rescue capability, and has been specifically designed to provide a comprehensive and highly capable submarine rescue service whilst ensuring the system is as quick and simple to mobilise as possible to maximise the chances of a successful rescue.

“Protecting the lives of submariners is the foundation of our business, and our teams of experts have worked tirelessly to ensure the seamless delivery of all of the submarine rescue systems JFD operates across the globe, continually driving the highest standards in safety. We have invested significantly in the development of our Third Generation system, using our deep and unrivalled knowledge of submarine rescue to conduct an extensive research and development programme, developed against a set of well-considered and representative requirements. The active participation of the Indian Navy throughout the build, acceptance and ongoing trials of the two systems trials is key to conducting safe and efficient operations in support of submarine rescue to allow them the ability to respond effectively to an emergency when a submarine is in distress.”

Having completed comprehensive factory acceptance testing which was signed off by the Indian Navy, the second system has been delivered to the customer just eight months after the first system. All of the technologies utilised in JFD’s Third Generation system are proven in service, and whilst innovative in arrangement, the methodology is built on tried and tested approaches and therefore requires little shift in operating doctrine, existing procedures, training and crewing competencies.

The Indian Navy formally inducted its first DSRV into service at a ceremony in Mumbai, India on the 12 December meaning that the Indian Navy has now joined a select league of nations with the capability to search, locate and provide rescue to distressed submarines.

Chief of the Naval Staff for the Indian Navy, Admiral Sunil Lanba, commented:
“The DSRV (induction) is a landmark event and it marks the culmination of years of focused efforts of the Navy in acquiring niche submarine rescue capability. With these capabilities, the Indian Navy has joined the select league of navies that operate such assets.”

As an integral part of JFD’s Third Generation system, the submarine rescue vehicles have been specifically designed to operate at the leading edge of capability whilst also being optimised to be easily transported by as many different aircraft types as possible. This greatly increases the number of available aircraft to transport the system, minimising the time required for mobilisation.

Release date: 05 December 2018

JFD and the Royal Australian Navy successfully complete landmark submarine rescue exercise

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully completed the “Black Carillon” 2018 submarine rescue exercise with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), further demonstrating its commitment to driving the highest standards in submarine rescue safety.

Black Carillon 2018 successfully tested every aspect of the RAN’s submarine rescue system, including the new hyperbaric escape and rescue capability, demonstrating a step-change in advanced submarine rescue operations.

It was also the first exercise to incorporate the RAN’s new hyperbaric equipment suite (HES) which entered into service in July 2018, testing the fully integrated submarine rescue capability for the first time. This means for the first time, the entire crew of a Collins Class submarine – up to 88 submariners – can be treated simultaneously.

The exercise was unequivocally successful in demonstrating an industry-leading step-change in advanced submarine rescue operations, further safeguarding the lives of submariners. It encompassed the entire rescue operation which included mobilisation and preparations, the deep dive mating exercise, aeromedical evacuation, transfer under pressure (TUP) and decompression, as well as the demobilisation of the entire system.

The RAN has commended JFD on a safe and highly successful Black Carillon:

“I was exceptionally impressed with what you achieved in the exercise and it was clearly evident that a strong sense of teamwork had been developed,” said Captain Geoff Wadley, RAN, Commander Submarine Force.

“Speaking to international observers, they were unanimous in their praise for the exercise and the value they all got out of it, a job exceptionally well done.”

A major element in testing the rescue suite this year was a continuously run ‘Rescue Exercise’, which aimed to test the complete system from the submersible through the hydraulics bellows into the transfer under pressure (TUP) chamber where any initial triage of patients could be undertaken. They then move to the new recompression chambers for simulated treatment depending on the symptoms being exhibited. The exercise, which commenced at early light at 0530 on 19 November and finalised at 1508 the 20 November, involved the launch and recovery of the submersible as in a real DISSUB scenario and necessitated the split manning of all control points of the suite to cover 24 hour operations. JFD worked seamlessly with the RAN medics and doctors to achieve all exercise objectives.

Toff Idrus, JFD Australia managing director, commented:

“Throughout our long and well-established partnership with the RAN, the James Fisher Submarine Rescue Service (JFSRS) team has pioneered and driven continual innovation to ensure the submarine rescue capability is as safe and comprehensive as possible. The annual Black Carillon exercises allow us to test the full capabilities of the JFSRS service, and we were particularly pleased to receive full operational verification from the RAN on the new HES system and advanced TUP capability during this most recent exercise.”

“During 2018 the JFD and RAN teams have completed a record three operational deployments to sea in a single calendar year, a testament to the long standing partnership in providing the most advanced submarine rescue capability that will ultimately drive the highest standards in protecting lives at sea.”

Black Carillon 2018 was conducted over a period of more than three weeks in November 2018. As a comprehensive operation, the exercise included all assets that would be required in the event of a real rescue operation, including RAN Rescue Gear Ship MV Stoker, Collins-class submarine HMAS SHEEAN and RAN Escape Gear Ship MV Besant.

Release date: 27 November 2018

JFD successfully completes milestone transportability trials for third generation submarine rescue system

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence diving markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully completed air transportability trials for the first of two Third Generation submarine rescue systems being delivered to the Indian Navy.

The completion of the trials represents a significant milestone in the delivery of a comprehensive submarine rescue capability to the Indian Navy that will enhance safety for submariners.

Limiting Time To First Rescue (TTFR) is crucial to conducting a successful submarine rescue operation. This relies on the fast and effective air deployment of the submarine rescue system to the Mother Ship (MOSHIP) that will host the system, enabling the equipment to be on site as quickly as possible. As part of the ongoing delivery of the Third Generation submarine rescue system to the Indian Navy, JFD conducted the comprehensive aircraft loading trials to fully ensure the effective air transportability of the system, and that the TTFR is as quick as possible.

The trials were performed in conjunction with the Indian Air Force, using the Ilyushin-76 transport aircraft. The trials proved the functionality of the ground handling equipment provided by JFD successfully integrating with the IL-76, allowing for the safe loading and unloading of all elements of the submarine rescue system.

Giovanni Corbetta, JFD Managing Director, commented:

“JFD is pleased to have successfully completed the air transportation trials of the first Indian Navy DSRV System, working in close partnership with the Indian Navy Submarine Rescue Team West and the Indian Air Force to achieve this key milestone in the journey to a fully comprehensive submarine rescue capability. The trials have proven the compatibility of the newly inducted Submarine Rescue System with the Indian Air Force IL-76 Transporters, and the rapid response and deployment capability this provides in support of disabled submarine rescue operations at sea.The fact that the transportation equipment is an embeded part of rescue system is unique and ensures the compatibility and availability of the loading equipment aligns with the rest of the rescue system.”

“The active participation of the Indian Navy’s submarine rescue team throughout the trials is key to conducting safe and efficient mobilisation operations in support of submarine rescue to allow them the ability to respond effectively to an emergency when a submarine is in distress.”

JFD preformed the trials to demonstrate the air transportability of the entire Deep Search and Rescue Vehicle (DRSV) system, including the ability to load the custom ground handling equipment at origin and unload it at the final destination – a key criteria to the successful. The mobilisation plans designed by JFD for the Indian Navy system utilise a variety of equipment load combinations to maximise the capacity of each transport plane and ensure a minimal TTFR.

The air transportation trials follow the sea trials of the DSRV for the first of the two third generation systems being delivered to the Indian Navy.

In a statement on social media, the Indian Navy said it now “joins a select league of nations with capability to search, locate and provide rescue to distressed submarines by induction of 1st Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel and associated kit in fly away configuration which can be rapidly mobilised. The DSRV can be mobilised from the naval base at Mumbai to nearest mounting port by air/land or sea for providing rapid rescue to the submarine in distress.”

Under the £193m contract, JFD is delivering two complete third-generation submarine rescue systems, including launch and recovery systems (LARS) equipment, Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) systems, logistics and support equipment, and a 25-year all-inclusive annual maintenance contract.

For video Click HERE

Release date: 19 October 2018

JFD successfully completes sea trials for first deep search and rescue vehicle for the Indian Navy

JFD has successfully completed the sea trials of the deep search and rescue vehicle (DSRV) for the first of two 3rd Generation Submarine Rescue Systems being delivered to the Indian Navy, the company has announced.

The DSRV carried out underwater mating with a bottomed submarine at a depth of over 300 feet, followed by a target mating and hatch opening at 45 degrees. On successful mating with the bottomed submarine, JFD and the Indian Navy then carried out a safe transfer of personnel from the submarine to the DSRV.

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Release date: 03 October 2018

JFD launches new Stealth CDLSE MCM rebreather

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence markets, and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, today announced the launch of the Stealth CDLSE Mk2 and Mk2-ED (Extended Duration), the latest enhanced models of its highly successful Clearance Diver’s Life Support Equipment rebreather.

The Stealth CDLSE Mk2 and Mk2-ED are used primarily for MCM-EOD (Mine Countermeasures Explosive Ordnance Disposal) and represent a new benchmark in state-of-the-art underwater life support technology, increasing levels of diver safety, equipment reliability, maintainability, operational capability and mission versatility.

Sea mines continue to increase in sophistication and are a growing operational concern as they proliferate in the naval arsenals of potentially adverse nations who maintain robust inventories. Today, sea mines are highly advanced and come in many different varieties, from bottom-buried mines, to acoustically-actuated variants to mines manufactured from composite materials; all of which makes detection and disposal even more challenging. To conduct safe MCM-EOD operations, divers need an advanced rebreather capability that provides an extended dive time even at greater depths. JFD has invested significant time and energy in bringing an advanced rebreather capability to the market that ensures divers have adequate depth and endurance capabilities to safely conduct their operations.

The Stealth CDLSE Mk2 builds upon the existing model, which has been in service for over 15 years and has a proven track record in a range of operational and environmental conditions. The set has been developed following extensive engagement with the end user to ensure it is fit for purpose to meet current and future operational requirements. Based on competitive evaluations conducted by independent government evaluation agencies and other end user organisations, Stealth CDLSE is considered one of the most popular MCM-EOD rebreathers in service, with over 600 sets in operation across 11 different countries around the world.

Founded on JFD’s commitment to innovate continually and develop products in line with market demands and always striving to increase the safety of divers, the new Stealth CDLSE Mk2 variants feature a number of significant enhancements. This includes new and more advanced O2 sensors, which enables the control system to rapidly and accurately respond to changes in life support system status; an improved choice of cylinders; while the Mk2-ED variant contains an extended duration scrubber which provides a significantly increased dive time of six to eight hours, the only set on the market able to provide this extended endurance capability.

The Stealth CDLSE Mk2 can operate at depths of up to 100m, and fully meets the requirements of NATO AEODP-7 Class A (STANAG 2897) without compromise and under both static and dynamic test conditions in all attitudes, as well as for any components that may come into contact with magnetically sensitive ordnance. And in line with the continued technological advancements of sea mines, the new Stealth CDLSE Mk2 surpasses the low acoustic test requirements of NATO STANAG AMP15.

Commenting on the development, Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD said:

“As the complexities and sophistication of mines and underwater explosive devices continues to increase, it is critical that we also innovate and enhance our life support technology and bring to market new products that maximise the levels of diver safety. The Stealth CDLSE Mk2 variants are the new benchmark for state-of-the-art multi-mission rebreathers and builds on the recognised success and widespread uptake of our original model.

“As a company, JFD’s entire focus and reason for being is to keep those that operate underwater in often harsh and highly dangerous conditions as safe as possible, and the launch of the Stealth CDLSE Mk2 and Mk2-ED demonstrates our fundamental commitment to delivering this. Our investment in R&D is an ongoing process, and JFD will continue to bring innovative, future proof solutions and services to market that drive the highest standards in safety and quality.”

18 September 2018

JFD and US Navy unveil first advanced combat diver navigation module, Shadow NAV

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JFD, the world-leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has partnered with the United States (US) Navy’s Naval Surface Warfare Centre – Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) in the development of an advanced combat diver navigation module; Shadow NAV, bringing a hands-free underwater navigation capability to the military market for the first time.

Military combat divers frequently conduct underwater navigation missions in hazardous conditions with extremely poor visibility. Critical to the success of these missions is accurate underwater navigation, as well as staying within closed circuit oxygen rebreather depth limits to prevent oxygen toxicity, which can cause significant health risks to the diver. However, current handheld or tactical swim board mounted compasses, depth gauges, and chronometers are obsolete in a zero-visibility environment; an ongoing issue, which, to date has created serious limitations to military combat diving operations. The Shadow NAV represents a leap forward in capability for combat divers by ensuring they have continual visibility of accurate information.

The Shadow NAV is fitted to a diver’s standard half mask and provides a clear visual display of a combat diver’s compass heading, depth, and time even in near-zero visibility conditions. Through using a mask-mounted head-up display, combat divers are not restricted by the poor visibility mission environment and may not require carrying a tactical swim board.

Danny Gray, Products & Support Director at JFD, commented: “The Combat Diver may have a significant amount of essential equipment to carry while conducting missions. Traditional kit such as the compass and depth gauges not only increases the amount of equipment required, but, more critically, they are of little, or no use in water with very limited visibility, even with auxiliary illumination. This puts the diver at too great a risk of injury or even fatality.

“To address these challenges for potentially dangerous underwater combat missions, the expert technical team S3D at the NSWC PCD worked to develop a small, low-cost, low-power enhanced navigation capability to significantly improve safety standards for military divers and give them the best possible chance of successfully completing their missions. In bringing this to market, JFD will be making this capability widely available to divers operating across the globe.”

The Shadow NAV (Combat diver navigation module) was recently awarded a 2018 Excellence in Technology Transfer Award by the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC) as part of its annual awards programme which recognises federal laboratories and their industry partners for outstanding technology transfer achievements. The Shadow NAV was selected from among more than 300 federal laboratories to receive the award.

JFD has a well-established history in the development of advanced and innovative systems which significantly improve diver safety. The company pioneers subsea innovation to deliver safer and more economic diving operations for its customers working in deep and often extreme environments. Through the partnership with the US Navy, JFD will bring the Shadow NAV technology to commercial fruition, ensuring the global diving industry, military and non-military, can conduct safe and efficient operations.

20 August 2018

JFD is exhibiting at ONS Norway

JFD is exhibiting at this year’s ONS event in Norway from the 27-30th August. Pass by Stand 5560 in Hall 5 to find out more about JFD and our capabilities across the commercial markets which include saturation systems, diving equipment, hyperbaric rescue, training and servicing.

Our Head of Sales – Commercial Services, Laura Stewart and Training Sales Supervisor, Neil Adam, will be on hand to discuss your requirements.

You can schedule a meeting with our representatives by emailing Marketing@jfdglobal.com or alternatively drop by our stand for a chat. Hope to see you there!

Release date: 03 July 2018

Australia’s safest ever submarine rescue system goes into service

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and the Australian Government have granted the licence to operate new $A19.7 million (£11.05 m) hyperbaric equipment which means that for the first time, the whole crew of an Australian submarine can be treated at once.

The equipment – a transfer under pressure chamber and recompression treatment suite – was received from JFD, the world’s leading company in submarine rescue and part of James Fisher and Sons plc as part of an existing Escape and Rescue contract at its advanced manufacturing headquarters at Bibra Lake, south of Perth.

“Achieving acceptance and global certification from Lloyds Register is a very rigorous and demanding procedure” said General Manager JFD Australia, Toff Idrus (himself, a former submariner).

“And what it means for submariners is extremely significant as up tinno 86 people can now receive life-saving medical treatment in the hyperbaric equipment suite and pressurised transfer chamber at any one time.

“When you consider that a Collins-class submarine has a crew of 48 – 60, this new capability is very significant and represents an important milestone for submarine rescue in Australia.”

The hyperbaric equipment suite is able to withstand and operate effectively in rough, continuous seas with swells of 5 metres – conditions not uncommon around the Australian coast.

This capability is critically important as the new kit is the final step in a submarine rescue which begins with rescuing the crew from a disabled submarine and transferring them safely into a JFD free-swimming, piloted rescue vehicle which carries them safely to the surface and on to the deck of a rescue ship.

From here, the submariners are moved through the transfer under pressure chamber and into the hyperbaric equipment suite with doctors monitoriong their wellbeing and helping them overcome any life-threatening effects that come from being rescued from pressurised waters.

“Emergencies of this type rely on highly-skilled personnel and world-class equipment to bring people who have been under pressure at depth to the safety of the surface and it is critical for Australia’s defence capability and national security, that we are able to do this,” said Mr. Idrus.

“Quite simply, the lives of the men and women of the Australian Defence Force may depend on us and we must ensure they are as safe as possible, even in worst-case scenarios.”

The new equipment took two years to build using JFD’s highly skilled workforce of some 100 personnel who will now conduct further naval testing and evaluation of the new equipment in August, culminating in the annual Black Carillion naval exercises in November 2018.

“JFD Australia has developed world-leading local knowledge and skills in submarine rescue and it has confirmed our reputation as a provider of proven, safe and reliable submarine rescue service to the Australian Government,” said Mr Idrus.

“It’s why JFD is the world’s ‘triple-0 number’ for distressed submarines.”

Importantly, the acceptance of the new system could lead to JFD creating more defence industry jobs in Australia as it opens up opportunities to export similar equipment to other countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

Release date: 26 June 2018

JFD completes first phase of open sea trials for the Indian Navy Deep Search and Rescue Vehicle

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence markets, and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully completed the first open sea launch, dive and recovery of the deep search and rescue vehicle (DSRV) for the first of two 3rd Generation Submarine Rescue Systems being delivered to the Indian Navy, the company has announced.

The DSRV completed a full launch deployment, dive and recovery in open sea, replicating the operating conditions of a real submarine rescue operation. The completion of this phase of open sea trials represents a significant milestone in the ongoing delivery and acceptance of the 3rd Generation Submarine Rescue System, which is grounded in a rigorous trials and testing process that ensures the highest safety standards are upheld.

Following the delivery of the first system to the Indian Navy in April this year, JFD deployed a team of 30 expert personnel to India’s west coast to support the mobilisation followed by a period of rigorous sea trials, working in close partnership with the Indian Navy who provided the commercial mothership and associated trials consort vessels. The Indian Navy west coast based rescue team, who will operate the system when in service, were active participants throughout this phase of the trials.

Speaking on the development, Ben Sharples, India DSRV Project Director at JFD said:

“The completion of this phase of open sea trials for the first DSRV is a significant milestone in the delivery of the first of two highly advanced 3rd Generation Submarine Rescue Systems. As well as forming part of the contractual acceptance, it’s an important stage as we look to ensure the safe operation of the System once in service.

“The System was tested in the harsh environment presented by the seas off Mumbai pre monsoon, an entirely different set of challenges compared to those experienced during harbour trials in Scotland earlier this year. To properly evaluate the System’s performance it is crucial to ensure that the System can be operated safely within its environmental envelope of current, sea state, depth, temperature and humidity. Additionally, sea trials afford the opportunity for the team to experience the operation of the equipment in a real setting, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills to conduct a safe and successful submarine rescue operation.”

JFD’s 3rd Generation DSRV marks a pioneering step-change in real world submarine rescue capability. It is weight optimised for maximum payload and optimum transportability, and is capable of operating at greater depths than most submarine rescue vehicles. The 3rd Generation DSRV has been specifically designed to optimise speed and manoeuvrability, both crucial factors in conducting a successful rescue operation, and the vehicle has the capability to mate with any submarine, even those that might be subject to inclination on the seabed.

The 3rd Generation Submarine Rescue Systems incorporate an innovative new system design and tightly integrated components to ensure time-to-first-rescue (TTFR) – the time measured between system deployment and commencement of the rescue – is minimised. In the event of an accident, this maximises the chances of a successful rescue, which is crucial in protecting the lives of submariners.

JFD has over 35 years’ experience in submarine rescue operations, and provides fast, safe and reliable subsea rescue services, solutions products, engineering services and training to 80 countries and 33 of the world’s navies including the Royal Navy, Australian, Singapore, and Korean Navies, as well as providing the NATO Submarine Rescue System. JFD is also the incumbent provider of many other underwater products and support services to the world’s navies.

Released by Fendercare Marine – June 2018

Fendercare Marine signs global supply agreement with HALO Maritime Defence Systems

Fendercare Marine enters strategic partnership with HALO to supply and install innovative marine safety and security barriers globally from bases in the UK, Middle East and Asia Pacific.
Customers will benefit from Fendercare Marine’s expert HALO marine barrier installation and maintenance support.
HALO systems offer the only solution available to have met or exceeded the US Navy’s performance specifications.

Fendercare Marine, part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has signed an international distribution and preferred supplier agreement with HALO Maritime Defence Systems (HALO), a global leader in waterside security and access control solutions, to provide enhanced marine asset security and protection to its global customer base.

The agreement, effective immediately, allows leading marine equipment supplier Fendercare Marine to supply and install HALO marine barriers and access control systems worldwide. Customers will benefit from increased availability of HALO’s advanced solutions as well as Fendercare Marine’s expert personnel and equipment support on installation and maintenance projects.

HALO’s floating barriers and gates provide essential security to critical assets that are vulnerable to water-borne access. The systems benefit from over ten years of research and development, offering the only solution available to have met or exceeded the US Navy’s performance specifications.

The partnership expands Fendercare Marine’s offering to the defence and maritime markets and will improve the availability of HALO barriers by leveraging the company’s international reach, together with the wider, global supply chain of the James Fisher group.

Eric Johnson, CEO of HALO, said: “Fendercare Marine has an established, international supply chain and a solid reputation for service so we are very happy to come on board with this agreement. With Fendercare Marine’s support, HALO will be able to offer our barrier systems to many more marinas, ports, harbours, offshore installations and other high priority assets, which until now have been beyond the reach of our US headquarters.”

Brett Ward, senior business development manager at Fendercare Marine, said: “We are very pleased that we’ve reached an international distribution and supplier agreement with HALO. These systems are – bar none – the best waterside security and safety solutions available anywhere in the world and we are proud to be HALO’s distributor and supplier of choice.

“Not only will this increase the availability of HALO’s systems, but it will mean that our own expert teams will be able to support installation and maintenance projects with HALO, offering a fully integrated service solution.”

Release date: 13 June 2018

JFD presents complete defence offering at UDT 2018 in Glasgow

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has announced details of the company’s presence at this year’s Undersea Defence Technology (UDT) conference, taking place between June 26th and 28th in Glasgow.

A unit of the company’s Torpedo SEAL stealth combat swimmer delivery vehicle (SDV) will be on display at the stand, accompanied by a Stealth Clearance Diver’s Life Support Equipment (CDLSE) rebreather apparatus.

The Torpedo SEAL, a two-man SDV, is designed to extend the operating range of a combat team and allow underwater survey and reconnaissance, the delivery of explosive ordnance, or create the capability for sub-surface counter-narcotics and harbour patrol operations. Torpedo SEAL transits can transport two divers and equipment, fully submerged, over a range of 10nm. The specially designed SDV can be easily stowed within the multi-purpose tubes being integrated into future submarine designs, or beneath the outer casing of the submarine.

Meanwhile, the company’s Stealth CDLSE underwater breathing apparatus will also be on display. Considered to be the benchmark in “state of the art” mine countermeasures explosive ordnance disposal (MCM EOD) underwater life support technology, Stealth CDLSE offers increased levels of diver safety, equipment reliability, maintainability, operational capability and mission versatility.

Over the three day event JFD’s experts will also be on hand to discuss the company’s full suite of defence products on stand No. E4. JFD provides a comprehensive range of products, services and solutions to markets including submarine rescue, special forces, law enforcement, counter-terrorism, maritime protection and mine countermeasures. This offering is grounded in more than three decades of safely delivering defence diving products, systems and services to navies worldwide.

JFD will also be holding exclusive open evenings at their Inchinnan office to view the latest Third Generation Submarine Rescue System build. To find out more information please contact: JFDevents@jfdglobal.com

To arrange a meeting with one of the team at UDT, please email JFDevents@jfdglobal.com

To find out more information about JFD and its work across the defence, hyperbaric and commercial diving markets, please visit www.jfdglobal.com.

Release date: 14 May 2018

Step change in diver safety as JFD’s COBRA completes first dive in North Sea

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has announced the successful completion of the first North Sea dives with COBRA (Compact Bailout Rebreather Apparatus), marking a significant leap forward in diver safety.

Bibby Offshore, leading subsea services supplier to the oil & gas industry, is the first North Sea contractor to adopt COBRA, thereby setting a precedent for diver safety in the region.

In March 2018 JFD delivered six of the rebreather sets to Bibby Offshore in order to enhance diver safety within their saturation diving teams by providing up to 20 minutes of bailout gas at depths of 300msw. COBRA is certified to a depth of 450msw and is currently being tested to 530msw – therefore greatly improving the chances of survival.

Over a two-week period, the COBRA sets were operated from the Bibby Topaz at a water depth of 110 metres. In all, over 30 bell runs were safely and successfully completed during the course of the operation.

On board assistance was provided by a JFD COBRA technician and instructor who conducted familiarisation training, and also provided advice to the divers and operators throughout the duration of the project.

On the back of this success – and with a high level of diver satisfaction – Bibby Offshore is already commencing its second North Sea dive with the COBRA sets. This new project will see the apparatus tested further, with a diving depth of 130 metres.

Allan Nairn, Director of Diving at Bibby Offshore, commented: “The entirety of our dive team responded positively towards the introduction of the COBRA rebreathers onto the Bibby Topaz. In particular, they emphasised that the benefits of additional breathing duration, the ability to test the COBRA at any time and the apparatus’ ease of use with regards to weight all made them feel safer in conducting their dives.”

JFD worked closely alongside Bibby Offshore personnel in the research, development and testing phases of the system, gaining invaluable feedback which has driven the inclusion of some of the main functionality and safety features.

JFD Managing Director Giovanni Corbetta said: “Enhancing the standard of subsea safety is JFD’s main driver. We have a longstanding reputation of producing the world’s most innovative, capable and proven diving equipment and technologies. By working closely alongside companies like Bibby Offshore who share the same values, we can ensure our products are developed in direct response to user requirements. After a lot of hard work, time and dedication from the JFD team throughout the development and testing phases, it’s a huge triumph to deliver COBRA to one of our most valued clients.”

COBRA was designed and developed in the UK by JFD in response to a crucial need for more advanced ‘bailout technologies’ to provide divers with an extended supply of emergency breathing gas in the event of a primary failure. The set was released last year following rigorous testing and in May 2017 COBRA was granted CE marking status to 300msw to NORSOK U101 (Diving Respiratory Equipment) and EN14143 (Self Contained Rebreathing Apparatus). COBRA is the only commercial emergency rebreather system in the world which can satisfy both of these requirements. As a result, the system pioneers a new level of safety for divers conducting operations around the world.

COBRA is expected to be adopted by a number of other North Sea contractors as the requirement for safer practice increases. JFD has also attracted interest from overseas customers who are recognising the benefits the system offers.

JFD is exhibiting at Sea Air Space 2018

JFD is looking forward to exhibiting at the largest maritime exposition in the US, Sea Air Space 2018, from 9-11 April.

Sea Air Space is an invaluable extension of the Navy League’s mission of maritime policy education and sea service support, showcasing the most current information and technology relevant to maritime policy.

JFD will be situated in the UK innovation zone, on stand 1019.

We will be showcasing our 3rd generation submarine rescue systems as well as our range of defence rebreathers and swimmer delivery vehicles.

JFD is the world leading underwater capability provider, serving the commercial and defence markets with innovative diving, submarine and hyperbaric rescue, technical solutions and services.

Our stand team will be on hand to discuss JFD’s products and services. You can schedule a meeting with one of our team members by emailing marketing@jfdglobal.com.

We look forward to seeing you at the event!

Release date: 21 February 2018

JFD completes build of the first of its new 3rd Generation Submarine Rescue System

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence markets, and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully completed the build of the first of its two new innovative 3rd Generation submarine rescue systems, due to be delivered to the Indian Navy in March 2018.

The completion of the build will be commemorated by a ceremony hosted by JFD and attended by senior representatives from the Indian Navy, due to take place at JFD’s Renfrew manufacturing facility on 23 February 2018. The ceremony will mark a world-first in the final integration of a complete submarine rescue system within a single manufacturing facility, enabling engineers to test in-situ how each component part will integrate in order to deliver the optimum submarine rescue capability.

Simon Everest, Head of the Department for International Trade’s Defence and Security Organisation hailed the completion, saying:

“I am pleased that JFD have reached this important milestone and that the programme will continue to benefit the company and the Indian Navy. India is an important strategic partner and we encourage further cooperation between the Indian armed forces and innovative UK companies”.

JFD’s 3rd Generation rescue system incorporates an innovative new system design and tightly integrated components to ensure time-to-first-rescue (TTFR) – the time measured between system deployment and commencement of the rescue – is minimised. In the event of an accident, this maximises the chances of a successful rescue, which is crucial in protecting the lives of submariners.

Under the £193m contract, JFD is providing two complete fly-away submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy, including Deep Search and Rescue Vehicles (DSRV), Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS) equipment, Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) systems, and all logistics and support equipment required to operate the service. The equipment will be designed, manufactured, integrated and tested by JFD prior to shipping in March 2018 for final commissioning and trials. The full, certified systems are due to delivered to the Indian Navy in June 2018.

Giovanni Corbetta, Managing Director, JFD said:

“Speed and reliability is key in conducting safe and effective submarine rescue operations to ensure that the submariners are reached as quickly as possible to minimise the risk the situation poses to their lives. The reliability with which any flyaway submarine rescue system can be deployed must be carefully balanced with its effectiveness and capability once onsite. 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.

“Protecting the lives of submariners is the foundation of our business. That is why we have invested significantly in the development of our 3rd generation system, using our deep and unrivalled knowledge of submarine rescue to conduct an extensive research and development programme, developed against a set of generic, but well-considered and representative requirements. The 3rd generation system represents a step-change in real world submarine rescue capability, and has been specifically designed to provide a comprehensive and highly capable submarine rescue service whilst ensuring the system is as quick and simple to mobilise as possible to maximise the chances of a successful rescue.”

All of the technologies utilised in JFD’s 3rd Generation system are proven in service. Whilst innovative in arrangement, the methodology is built on tried and tested approaches and therefore requires little shift in operating doctrine, existing procedures, training and crewing competencies.

As an integral part of JFD’s 3rd Generation system, the submarine rescue vehicles have been specifically designed to operate at the leading edge of capability whilst also being optimised to be easily transported by as many different aircraft types as possible. This greatly increases the number of available aircraft to transport the system, minimising the time required for mobilisation.

The JFD team has already begun conducting in-depth training with local teams of engineers to operate and maintain the systems, employing the knowledge it has gained through years of operating world-class submarine rescue services with navies across the world and creating an indigenous expert submarine rescue capability.

Release date: 19 February 2018

JFD creates Australian defence industry jobs through James Fisher and Sons plc’s acquisition of Cowan Manufacturing

JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence markets, has announced the acquisition by its parent company James Fisher and Sons plc, of diving and recompression specialist, Cowan Manufacturing. This acquisition will create Australian defence industry jobs and expand JFD’s presence in Australia.

The acquisition of the Newcastle-based business is a significant step in JFD’s plan to expand its advanced manufacturing base in Australia and complements existing high-tech facilities at Bibra Lake, south of Perth and Kirrawee in Sydney.

Cowan Manufacturing, a family business since 1973 which currently employs 25 staff, has an impressive and proven track record and is recognised worldwide for its design and manufacture of lifesaving recompression and hyperbaric chambers.

“Our core business has always been to make the world’s best products using Australian steel and aluminium and employing highly-skilled local tradespeople,” said Bob Cowan, Managing Director of Cowan Manufacturing.”

“It has been this unwavering commitment to quality along with our workshop, testing and laboratory facilities that has seen us establish important defence clients in Australia, Asia and Europe and secure the highly-sought after US Navy Seal of Approval.

“Linking in with JFD Australia is the obvious progression for us, as both businesses are keen to push ahead with supporting and growing local industry and jobs.

“All of our current employees will retain their positions following the acquisition and they will benefit from further in-house opportunities for promotion.”

The Cowan Manufacturing acquisition helps JFD Australia’s aspirations to grow its business and develop into a defence industry prime systems integrator.

Toff Idrus, JFD Australia General Manager, commented: “This is an exciting day for JFD and our staff who can look forward to even more employment opportunities; as the acquisition of Cowan Manufacturing will expand JFD’s capability, resulting in JFD creating more jobs across Australia for Australians.”

“Perth is where it all began for us in Australia in 2003 with the establishment of a base building deep diving saturation systems, and equipping the Royal Australian Navy with a full complement of military diving equipment and systems. In 2009 we first started providing a free-swimming submarine rescue service and escape training facility to the Royal Australian Navy.”

“From there, with the help of an outstanding local supply chain and some 100 local personnel, we have become a safe, proven and reliable capability partner of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), as well as a leading exporter of products for defence industries around the world.”

JFD’s products and services are used by 80 nations and 33 navies and include submarine rescue systems, hyperbaric rescue systems, saturation diving systems and diving rebreathers.

“The transaction means JFD Australia will extend its existing RAN hyperbaric repairer accreditation, and that will include the manufacture of high-tech steel and aluminium equipment such as the submarine rescue vehicles which are so important to our business,” said Mr Idrus.

“We have long been considered the world’s triple-0 number for distressed submarines and now, with Cowan Manufacturing, we can further enhance this capability with the world’s best recompression and life support systems for divers and submarine crews in need of emergency support anywhere in the world.”

JFD’s Managing Director, Giovanni Corbetta agreed, saying Cowan Manufacturing is a welcome addition to JFD Australia.

“Cowan Manufacturing takes JFD to the forefront of providing comprehensive hyperbaric support, as well as submarine rescue system engineering, manufacturing and services capabilities.

“This will further strengthen our vision to support our clients’ core operations by offering Australian market-leading technology solutions and world-class support.”

JFD completes harbour acceptance trials for its first Deep Search and Rescue Vehicle for the Indian Navy

JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has completed the first stage of harbour acceptance trials of its first deep search and rescue vehicle (DSRV) for the Indian Navy’s 3rd Generation Submarine Rescue System, the company has announced.

The initial harbour acceptance trials of the first DSRV, which were undertaken at Glasgow’s King George V dock, are now complete. As part of this process the system has been comprehensively tested in a variety of conditions.

The DSRV hull previously underwent factory acceptance tests in December 2017 at the JFD-owned National Hyperbaric Centre in Aberdeen. These tests included thorough pressurised testing on the system’s pressure hulls and command module – all of which were completed successfully.

Upon completion of the harbour acceptance trials, the DSRV will be fully integrated with the rest of the rescue system at a site in Glasgow including the offshore handling system, intervention suite and 90 person decompression facilities.

Speaking on the development, Ben Sharples, India DSRV Project Director at JFD said:

“The completion of the initial harbour acceptance trials for the first DSRV, to be delivered to the Indian Navy, is an important step in the delivery of this contract. This is part of the progressive acceptance of the system designed to drive out risk during the later stages of sea acceptance.

JFD’s 3rd Generation DSRV marks a significant and pioneering step-change in real world submarine rescue capability. It is one of the deepest submarine rescue vehicles available and is weight optimised for maximum payload and optimum transportability. It has high levels of in-water performance including speed and manoeuvrability and can mate with submarines that might be subject to inclination on the seabed.

We are pleased of the progress that has been made in delivering on this important contract and look forward to the DSRV becoming operational later this year.”

The 3rd Generation Submarine Rescue System has been developed by JFD to maximise the chances of successfully rescuing the crew of a distressed submarine (DISSUB). Using its 30 years of experience and knowledge it has challenged the convention and brought to market an innovative new system that ensures the highest standards in safety, quality, flexibility and speed, thereby better protecting the lives of submariners.

Under the £193m contract, awarded in March 2016, JFD is providing two complete flyaway submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy, including DSRVs, Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS) equipment, Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) systems, and all logistics and support equipment required to operate the service. The equipment has been designed, manufactured, integrated and tested by JFD prior to shipping in March 2018 for final commissioning and trials. The full, certified systems are due to be delivered to the customer in June 2018.

2017 Winter Roundup – CLICK HERE

Release date: 5 December 2017

Taking the plunge – submarine rescue skills put to the test

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JFD, the world leading underwater capability provider serving the commercial and defence markets and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has demonstrated why it is a global leader in submarine rescue after two weeks of intensive exercises at sea off the coast of Western Australia.

In some of the world’s most challenging waters, “Black Carillon 2017” showcased JFD Australia’s superior ability to save lives in a deep-sea submarine emergency.

As a trusted and proven strategic capability partner of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN,) JFD Australia conducted the annual safety exercise with the support of a robust local supply chain which helped deliver and install critical submarine rescue equipment to the two participating ships, MV BESANT and MV STOKER.

Launching from the deck of MV STOKER, JFD’s free-swimming LR5 rescue vehicle with a pilot and two crew, was sent down to depths of 400 metres to locate the underwater target seat and simulate the safe “mating” to the rescue seat of a real submarine.

This is a crucial exercise as it also serves to maintain the submersible’s 3rd party certification ensuring that it is ready and fit for its hazardous duty year-round.

“This year threw up some very tough conditions, the weather was closing in and our operations team, engineers and technicians really needed to put their knowledge and experience to the test,” said General Manager, JFD Australia, Toff Idrus.

“That makes the success of this operation even more pleasing and shows that the fast, safe and proven submarine rescue service we have been providing to the Navy for the past decade is still unrivalled.”

The fortnight of exercises also included mock rescues in shallower waters of 136 metres, using the RAN submarine, HMAS WALLER.

The LR5 successfully attached or “mated” with the submarine’s hatch several times, which, in a real emergency, would see those on board a disabled submarine safely rescued from the sea floor.

“This year’s Black Carillon exercise was highly successful and clearly demonstrated that we have a capable and reliable Submarine Rescue Suite that is able to respond to a submarine emergency,” said the RAN’s Commander of the Submarine Force, Captain Geoff Wadley.

JFD Australia is also soon to deliver a world-class hyperbaric equipment suite to the Australian Government which will offer lifesaving medical and decompression treatment for up to 65 survivors with room for a further 14 chamber operators and medical staff in what is further evidence of JFD’s Australian capability and commitment to local jobs and continued growth of its local workforce.

“JFD Australia has a solid track record in offering a full submarine rescue system from our advanced maintenance and service centre at Bibra Lake, south of Perth that is on standby at all times and ready to respond within twelve hours,” said Mr. Idrus.

Release date: 27 September 2017

JFD demonstrates NATO Submarine Rescue System capabilities during major international exercise

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JFD, the world-leading submarine rescue and diving equipment company and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has recently taken part in a major international submarine rescue exercise, Dynamic Monarch ‘17, which required it to demonstrate the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) capability, as well as provide training on various elements of the system.

JFD is responsible for maintaining NSRS in a permanent state of rescue readiness for the NATO partner nations of France, Norway and the UK, to go anywhere in the world at any time. JFD has been an integral part of the UK’s submarine rescue provision since 1985, and has been at the heart of NSRS since it came into service in 2008.

The system is fully air transportable using a variety of suitable aircraft and is capable of launch and recovery in a significant wave height of up to 5m (sea state 6). NSRS is designed to reach a distressed submarine in 72 hours from the point of alert.

Dynamic Monarch is one of the largest submarine rescue exercises internationally, occurring every three years and is designed to test international forces’ interoperability and ability to respond to submarines that have become disabled, anywhere in the world. The exercise offers the chance to demonstrate multi-national submarine rescue co-operation and provides a platform for sharing knowledge amongst participating nations.

The exercise required JFD to fully mobilise the rescue system to Turkey. The mother ship (MOSHIP) embarkation and mobilisation took place at King George V Dock in Glasgow, with the system sailing to the exercise point in Turkey. The main exercise phase commenced on 8 September and was executed over a two week period, in which various submarines took part in the simulated rescue operations.

The objectives of the exercise covered Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) operations and a series of demonstrations of submarine rescue vehicle (SRV) ‘mating’ with a variety of submarines. A total of nine mates took place during the exercise. There was also the provision of training opportunities to JFD operational personnel on each element of the system, as well as to NSRS Partner Nation personnel in areas such as rescue chamber operations and medical support functions, throughout the exercise process.

Upon completion of the exercise, the MOSHIP transited back to the disembarkation point at King George V Dock, where the equipment was removed from the vessel and returned to HMNB Clyde for restoration works to maintain ‘Rescue Readiness’ status.

Rob Pickering, JFD NSRS Project Manager said:

“Dynamic Monarch ’17 gives JFD the opportunity to demonstrate the world class capability that is provided by NSRS. The highly trained operational team delivered further confidence to the participant nations that in the event of a real emergency, the NSRS Rescue System can mobilise and participate in a successful rescue.”

JFD has undertaken several successful NSRS rescue exercises over the previous two years of service, including Northern Sun ’15, Golden Arrow ’16 and Northern Sun ’17, which shows the continued commitment to the NATO Submarine Rescue System as well as the recognition of responsibility to assuring the operations team is fully trained in all aspects of a safe rescue.

Visit JFD at DSEI 2017 and watch SEAL Carrier in action at the waterborne demos!

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Positioned on stand S9-282, JFD will be exhibiting its complete offering to the defence diving market including the latest third generation submarine rescue capabilities, swimmer delivery vehicles and its range of Divex rebreathers, equipment and accessories. There will also be the opportunity to see SEAL Carrier first hand and witness its capability at the waterborne demonstrations taking part at the dockside.

For full details CLICK HERE

Specialist hyperbaric welding trials completed at JFD’s National Hyperbaric Centre

JFD, world-leading submarine rescue and diving equipment company and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, recently facilitated a dry hyperbaric welding trial for Subsea 7 within its saturation diving complex in Aberdeen.

Ten diver welders were welcomed to JFD’s National Hyperbaric Centre in May and were accommodated for 13 days at a depth of 43msw within the saturation diving system in order to prove their welding techniques prior to fulfilling an offshore contract.

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JFD’s National Hyperbaric Centre houses the only land based saturation diving system in the UK. The 16-man saturation dive complex is the ideal choice for clients looking to simulate a realistic, controlled hyperbaric environment in order to pre-qualify their diver welders prior to an offshore project ensuring welding procedures are safe, compliant and efficient.

The centre has enabled a number of welding trials over the years and its unique facilities and specialist technicians have attracted customers from around the world – even as far as Australia!

The saturation system is capable of facilitating manned trials to 300msw and comprises two fully fitted 8-man living chambers which connect to a transfer chamber (TC). Wet or dry diving trials can be accommodated and in the case of a wet trial, the TC simulates a diving bell complete with moon pool which connects to the work chamber below.

The work chamber is fitted out prior to the weld by JFD’s experienced technicians who ensure the correct safety and monitoring equipment is in place. Working closely with the client they create a habitat environment as similar as possible to the one in which the divers will be working in offshore.

The dive follows exact offshore procedures with divers being monitored 24/7 by JFD life support supervisors and technicians as soon as they are under pressure. On shift within the work chamber, divers are monitored by Subsea 7 dive supervisors as they complete their welding procedures. Between shifts, the welded pipeline sections are removed from the work chamber through the entry lock of the TC and are taken away for inspection by a third party to ensure weld integrity in order to successfully qualify the diver welder.

Performing hyperbaric welding trials within a controlled environment is essential to ensure safety and efficiency during mobilisation, and to reduce downtime offshore which could be time consuming and costly for the client.

Martin Robb, head of delivery for Commercial services, said:

“This is the first hyperbaric weld we have performed in the last couple of years following the industry downturn and I am delighted with JFD’s performance. The dive system is continually maintained and audited and as such can be fully operational on short notice. JFD staff worked closely alongside the client to mobilise and fit out the work chamber for the weld trials and the project ran to schedule.

The chamber complex ran 24 hour operations efficiently and smoothly which is testament to our highly skilled and experienced staff and technicians who managed the project exceptionally well from start to finish, quickly and expertly responding to any requests that arose from either the divers or the client.

The facility also acts as a 24 hour diver emergency response centre and, as luck would have it, we received an emergency call to support a diving incident during the welding project. The team immediately responded and implemented the relevant JFD procedures for such an emergency. The emergency was successfully and efficiently handled and the welding trial operation remained unaffected. I am incredibly proud of the team’s professional and expert approach to the situation and their continuous efforts as a whole which ensure JFD maintains its position at the forefront of subsea safety.”

Release date: 10 July 2017

JFD’s COBRA bailout rebreather successfully completes first offshore dive to 270msw

JFD, the world-leading submarine rescue and diving equipment company and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, received fantastic feedback from DOF Subsea following the first major offshore dive for its new deep diving rebreather, COBRA (Compact Bailout Rebreathing Apparatus).

Earlier this year, JFD released COBRA into the market to replace conventional SCUBA bailout methods, providing divers with a greatly extended supply of breathing gas in the event of a primary supply failure. Last month following extensive testing, COBRA was granted full CE marking status, making it the only approved system of its kind to achieve NORSOK U101 (Diving Respiratory Equipment) and EN14143 (Self Contained Rebreathing Apparatus) standards. As such, COBRA leads the way in terms of safety and functionality.

Upon delivery of their new COBRA systems, DOF Subsea divers and technicians received familiarity and maintenance training from JFD on-board their Skandi Singapore DSV before embarking on a saturation diving project to 270msw in Australia.

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At these extreme depths, traditional bailout systems would offer the divers less than 3 minutes of emergency breathing gas, whereas the COBRA system provides 20 minutes minimum duration for this depth, offering the diver a greatly extended opportunity to return safely to the diving bell.

COBRA has been designed and developed by JFD to reduce a diver’s gas usage by effectively recycling the diver’s breath, removing carbon dioxide and injecting a flow of fresh breathing gas to replace the oxygen consumed. COBRA can be tested at any time, giving divers vital reassurance through the single turn activation valve on the helmet. This allows the diver to mechanically switch COBRA on and off as a pre-dive check.

The divers were satisfied with the set’s performance during the dive and JFD received extremely positive feedback with regards to ease of use, comfort, practicality and the greatly improved safety benefits offered by the system.

COBRA marks a step change in diver safety by improving the chances of survival for a diver when disconnected from his primary supply, a hugely relevant issue in the industry. It is believed that COBRA will be adopted globally as standard for all saturation divers at all depths, not just for deeper diving.

JFD managing director, Giovanni Corbetta commented:

“JFD is delighted with COBRA’s recent performance throughout both the CE marking testing and the recent dive to 270msw. We are confident that the system provides divers with a reliable and practical solution to an issue which has been of huge concern to diving contractors and oil and gas operators for a number of years. Previous bailout systems’ shortfalls have now been addressed and we are expecting companies to adopt COBRA within their procedures to raise the safety level of diving activities and to ensure preventable diver casualties are widely reduced.”

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Visit JFD at DSEI 2017 and watch our SEAL Carrier in action at the waterborne demos live each day!

Positioned on stand S9-282, we will be exhibiting our complete offering to the defence diving market including the latest SEAL Carrier and Torpedo Seal SDVs, our range of Divex rebreathers, equipment and accessories. We will also be showcasing our submarine escape and rescue capabilities and the hyperbaric services of our National Hyperbaric Centre. There will also be the opportunity to see SEAL Carrier first hand and witness its capability.

Registration is currently open and discounts available: https://www.dsei.co.uk/register

For further information; to book an appointment to speak with one of the team, or to request an in-depth briefing during DSEI, please contact Debbie Allan at d.allan@jfdglobal.com

We look forward to seeing you in London!

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JFD prepares for final testing of first two safety-advanced SPHLs completed with Vanguard
JFD, the world-leading subsea operations and manufacturing company and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, nears completion of two innovative and newly designed self-propelled hyperbaric lifeboats (SPHL), developed in partnership with Vanguard Composite Engineering Pte Ltd (Vanguard), which are leading the market in operational lifeboat safety standards.

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In February 2016, JFD won a multi-million pound contract to design and manufacture six SPHLs (four 18-man and two 24-man) as part of the saturation diving systems on board a new fleet of diving support vessels (DSV). Final testing of the first two 18-man SPHLs is due to take place before installation and commissioning on the first DSV. These lifeboats mark the first to be completed as part of a new partnership between JFD and Vanguard, based in Singapore.

The partnership combines JFD’s hyperbaric and chamber manufacture and design expertise with highly respected lifeboat manufacturer, Vanguard. This exclusive partnership leads the way for a new generation of hyperbaric lifeboats and integrated davit systems which are leading the market in terms of operational safety standards for saturation divers.

Giovanni Corbetta, JFD managing director stated:
“We are delighted with the progress of our first collaborative project alongside Vanguard. The project is on schedule and we are looking forward to delivering two advanced, high-quality vessels which will raise the safety standard of SPHLs globally, greatly improving the chances of a successful, safe recovery and decompression of the divers”.

JFD and Vanguard worked closely during the design and engineering phase, and the build programme for each element commenced simultaneously across all their global locations. Following the SPHL boats and davit systems manufacture at Vanguard facility in China and the chamber fabrication at JFD’s Australian, Korean and UK bases, the final outfitting is being completed at JFD’s LEXMAR facility in Singapore.

The SPHLs have been subject to continuous testing and DNV class build surveys throughout their manufacture to ensure compliance with the latest industry standards. FAT testing is due to commence with the client and shipyard, which will involve pressure and leak tests, load and function tests and all other requirements mandated by Class, IMO and SOLAS.

The completed lifeboats will undergo speed and endurance testing in August 2017 before final acceptance by DNV and delivery to the client.

JFD’s project team will then move straight onto the additional two 18-man 300m SPHLs and the two 24-man 300m SPHLs to complete the contract.

While the partnership with Vanguard is a new avenue for JFD, the company has a long standing pedigree of hyperbaric and chamber manufacture and design. Previous builds have included those within saturation diving systems onboard DSV’s Deep Explorer, Skandi Singapore, Skandi Arctic, Seven Atlantic and Skandi Achiever, to name a few.

Giovanni continued:
“We are very excited about the future of this partnership having just secured a further contract with Shanghai Salvage for the supply of two SPHLs for JFD’s prestigious 500m rated 24-man modular saturation system. They have just passed prototype testing and are scheduled for delivery Q2 2018.
“We have received extremely positive feedback from clients in regards to the venture. The two companies are leaders in their fields and share the same ambition to progress the safety of the subsea industry through well designed, high quality equipment.”

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19 June 2017

Sculptures subjected to pressure testing at JFD’s National Hyperbaric Centre for artist’s experiment

JFD, the world-leading subsea operations and manufacturing company and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, subjected sculptures to maximum depth pressure testing to support an experiment by London based, highly commended artist, Steven Claydon.

Claydon is widely known for his sculptural work which examines the changing value of objects – aesthetic, functional and financial. The project, which was one of the more unusual ever undertaken at the NHC, was for the artist’s exhibition at The Common Guild in Glasgow, presenting a new installation which addresses the ideas of jeopardy and pressure, drawing a parallel between physical pressures and the more subtle kinds of pressures in terms of how objects are used, viewed, presented or aestheticised within a social or institutional context.

Two large wooden totem-like sculptures arrived at the National Hyperbaric Centre in April 2017 and were carefully secured within its large work chamber by on-site technicians. The chamber was flooded with water and pressurised to 100bar which is equivalent to 1000msw (metres of sea water). The process was recorded using underwater cameras within the chamber and a photographer took detailed photos of the objects before and after the test for the art installation project.

JFD’s large work chamber, based within its National Hyperbaric Centre in Aberdeen, is capable of simulating depths up to 1000msw. It is used on a daily basis to perform pressure testing on subsea equipment to ensure functionality, safety and integrity at depth prior to mobilisation. Due to the adaptability of the NHC’s assets within the National Hyperbaric Centre, it’s often approached by some more unusual clients.

Martin Robb, JFD head of delivery, commercial services, said:

“Over the years, the NHC has seen a lot of unusual objects come through its doors for testing. Our chambers are adaptable and can simulate impressive depths, but also altitudes of up to 55,000ft. Our technicians are highly experienced and work with the system on a daily basis. They are able to provide clients with specialist advice and support from the project planning stage right through to the end results. Our team is always excited to receive out of the ordinary enquiries which explore our diversity and capability.”

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Join JFD at UDT in Germany

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JFD is exhibiting on stand B42 at Undersea Defence Technology (UDT) 2017, an underwater defence and security focussed exhibition and conference. UDT takes place in Bremen, Germany from 30 May to 1 June and brings together professionals from the military, industry and academia to focus on the cutting edge technologies and developments within one of the harshest environments known to man.

JFD is one of the world’s leading subsea operations and manufacturing companies providing complex diving and underwater systems to the commercial and defence industries.

Operating worldwide, the company is the world’s leading provider of submarine rescue capability and an established provider of submarine escape training.

JFD will be displaying two man swimmer delivery vehicle Torpedo SEAL, alongside our defence Divex rebreathers, Stealth CDLSE and Shadow Enforcer.

JFD’s range of swimmer delivery vehicles, primarily exist to facilitate the insertion and extraction of Special Operations forces and equipment. In this role, their use allows for greater stand-off from surface ships and submarines. The vehicles are surface or subsurface craft, each optimised for a particular deployment method or mission profile. The vehicles and Divex range of underwater breathing apparatus integrate together perfectly to provide reliable, through-mission life-support.

Our stand team will be on hand to discuss these products as well as our submarine rescue and escape capabilities.

If you have any questions, or would like to book an appointment with one of the team at the show, please email: marketing@jfdglobal.com.

We hope to see you in Bremen!

Visit JFD at Europoltech 2017

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JFD is exhibiting at Europoltech, the international fair of technology and equipment for the police and national security services taking place in Gdansk Poland, from 26-28 April. We will be situated on the IMS-GRIFFIN stand, A46.
JFD is the world’s largest manufacturer and supplier of professional diving equipment, providing everything from personal diver equipment to full saturation diving systems.
Our two man swimmer delivery vehicle Torpedo SEAL will be on display, alongside our defence Divex rebreather, Shadow Excursion.
Our stand team will be on hand to discuss any enquiries you may have relating to our range of swimmer delivery vehicles (SDVs) and Divex range of defence rebreathers.
JFD’s range of swimmer delivery vehicles primarily exist to facilitate the insertion and extraction of Special Operations forces and equipment. In this role, their use allows for greater stand-off from surface ships and submarines. The vehicles are surface or subsurface craft, each optimised for a particular deployment method or mission profile. The JFD range of SDVs and Divex range of underwater breathing apparatus integrate together to provide reliable, through-mission life-support.
If you have any questions, or would like to book an appointment with one of the team at the show, please email: marketing@jfdglobal.com.

We hope to see you in Poland!

World first as JFD’s COBRA passes conformity assessment for CE marking making it the only approved system of its kind

Posted on 12th April 2017 by sonistics

World first as JFD’s COBRA passes conformity assessment for CE marking making it the only approved system of its kind

JFD, the world-leading subsea operations and manufacturing company and a part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has successfully completed rigorous trials on its new COBRA (Compact Bailout Rebreathing Apparatus) system verifying its capability and performance to CE Mark status.

COBRA was designed and developed by JFD in response to a crucial need for bailout technology which can support the depth requirements and excursion durations of new generation diving operations.

Norway pioneered new guidelines which stipulate that a diver must have a minimum of 10 minutes emergency breathing gas calculated at a breathing rate of 62.5 l/m which render open circuit bailout methods non-conforming at depths greater than 56m. The only two systems in the world which can satisfy these requirements are JFD’s Divex SLS and COBRA.

The Divex SLS has been sold globally by JFD for the past 20 years. In response to Diver feedback, JFD designed COBRA to further enhance the SLS technology creating a compact, easy to operate and maintain, mechanical system which can provide up to 45 minutes endurance. COBRA is the only system which can be tested any time by the diver, this is a step change compared with previous systems which once activated, could not be switched off.

Rigorous tests and trials have been undertaken throughout the development and CE marking assessment phases in order to assure performance under the most arduous conditions, environments and breathing requirements. The trials included measuring the work of breathing (WOB), testing operational parameters, resistance and endurance tests as well as pressure and environmental testing. As part of the CE Marking process, two days were spent testing COBRA using independent divers within the JFD dive tank pushing the kit to the required limits.

Successfully passing the assessment declares that COBRA meets the required safety, health and environmental standards to comply with EU legislation to the standard EN14143 and NORSOK U101.

JFD has received an extremely positive response to COBRA following recent seminars and events and has already sold a number of sets globally.

To read more about COBRA click here or contact us for more information.

Visit JFD on stand 403 at Underwater Intervention 2017
JFD is exhibiting at Underwater Intervention, a leading commercial diving and ROV conference and exhibition taking place in New Orleans, from 21-23 February.

JFD is the world’s largest manufacturer and supplier of professional diving equipment, providing everything from personal diver equipment to full saturation diving systems.

You can find us on stand number 403 where our new COBRA Diver Bailout Rebreather System will be featured alongside one of our LEXMAR diving panels.

COBRA has been designed and developed as part of the Divex range of rebreathers in response to the urgent need for significant improvements in safety within the saturation diving industry. COBRA provides up to 45 minutes of fully independent breathing gas in an emergency scenario, significantly improving the likelihood of a successful rescue.

In August 2016, JFD acquired LEXMAR; a Singapore based manufacturer of saturation diving systems and related equipment. LEXMAR’s products and services complement and further expand JFD’s existing portfolio, which leads the way in terms of capability, specification and global support.

Join us on our stand each day at 3pm for a Whisky tasting session to sample some fine Scottish Whiskies.

Our experts will be on hand at the show and would be delighted to discuss how JFD can help support your requirements. You can schedule a meeting with one of our team members by emailing marketing@jfdglobal.com or alternatively drop by our stand for a chat.

We hope to see you there!

PRESS RELEASE:

1 March 2017

JFD and Wuhu Diving Equipment Factory joint venture secures first saturation diving system contract

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JFD, the world-leading subsea operations and manufacturing company and a part of James Fisher and Sons plc, is delighted to announce that its joint venture company, Wuhu Divex Diving Systems Limited has secured its first contract for a 300m saturation diving system for Shanghai Salvage.
The multi-million dollar contract awarded by Shanghai Salvage, is for the design and build of a mobile, 12-man, 300m saturation diving system, similar to a previous system supplied by JFD to the customer in 2009.
These mobile saturation systems can be quickly deployed on several vessels in the Shanghai Salvage fleet, and allow the company to execute salvage, subsea installation and intervention projects in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
This mobile saturation system award is a follow-on contract to the 500m saturation system contract which was awarded to JFD by Shanghai Salvage in December 2016. The multi-million pound contract covered the design and build of a 24-man saturation diving system capable of diving to depths of 500m which incorporated JFD’s advanced state-of-the-art technology.
JFD has enjoyed a ten year partnership with government–owned Shanghai Salvage and is delighted that this partnership is continuing through their joint venture Wuhu Divex Diving Systems Limited.
Wuhu Divex Diving Systems Limited was established in late 2016 between JFD and Wuhu Diving Equipment Factory and is dedicated to the manufacture of advanced diving systems for the Chinese market.
This joint venture allows JFD and Wuhu Diving Equipment Factory to grow together within the Chinese underwater arena. As both have extensive track records of designing, manufacturing and installing diving systems the partnership allows Wuhu Divex Diving Systems Limited to provide a strengthened comprehensive offering, demonstrated by this first contract win.

For further information contact: Marketing@jfdglobal.com

14 December 2016

JFD expands hyperbaric rescue offering with the addition of Portable HRF

Portable 18-man HRF delivered to JFD’s National Hyperbaric Centre
Expanding JFD’s Hyperbaric Rescue capability across the whole of the UK
Increases safety by providing well maintained systems and experienced personnel

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JFD, the world-leading subsea operations and manufacturing company and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has recently accepted the delivery of a portable 18-man hyperbaric rescue facility (HRF) which will offer offshore operators an encompassing solution for hyperbaric reception across the whole of the UK.

JFD’s National Hyperbaric Centre (NHC) has been at the forefront of Hyperbaric Rescue since its establishment in 1987. The centre houses the only land-based saturation diving complex in the UK which has played historic and important role as a hyperbaric reception facility for many diving contractors operating in the North Sea. The addition of the portable HRF means JFD can extend this support across all UK waters, becoming a single source supplier for customers looking for HRF capability to satisfy their hyperbaric rescue requirements.

This service not only provides a cost effective solution by capitalising on asset sharing benefits, but also aims to increase safety as customers can be assured the systems are audited, serviced and maintained on a regular basis.

Following an evacuation, divers have up to 72 hours life support on board, therefore a fast recovery and an efficient HRF process is imperative to save the diver’s lives. JFD’s team have developed specialist skills through years of proven service and have first-hand experience through involvement with various live trials performed at National Hyperbaric Centre making them the ideal choice when looking for support in this area.
The portable system is now available for hire and can be transported and stored on standby at a nominated port of recovery, allowing clients to minimise SPHL/HRC travel distance and time as part of their hyperbaric rescue plan.

The 18-man HRF was built by JFD at their Australian facility to support a diving contract based in Western Australia. JFD systems represent state-of–the-art technologies and innovation and are built by experienced personnel with safety, practicality and comfort in mind. The HRF has been designed to facilitate easy transportation and relocation from country to country, rapidly providing decompression and medical support. The HRF is designed to mate to a Self-Propelled Hyperbaric Lifeboat (SPHL) or to a Hyperbaric Rescue Chamber (HRC) to allow the divers to transfer under pressure to the HRF chamber and continue decompressing away from the dangers that have ensued upon the vessel. The HRF is built to Lloyd’s Register Rules for the Construction & Classification of Submersibles and Diving Systems and is fully IMCA compliant.

Three Life Support Packages (LSPs) are now also under management within JFD’s fast developing asset pool.

JFD’s mission is to maintain its position as a market leader within this specialised area by providing a turnkey solution to customers across the whole of the UK which it hopes will improve subsea safety standards.

12 December 2016

JFD and Wuhu Diving Equipment Factory sign joint venture to further strengthen presence in the Chinese market

JFD strengthens presence in China with joint venture with Wuhu Diving Equipment Factory
Access to more economic resources in China through this partnership

JFD, the world-leading subsea operations and manufacturing company and a part of James Fisher and Sons plc, has expanded into the Chinese market through the signing of a joint venture with Wuhu Diving Equipment Factory (http://chinadiving.cn).

Wuhu Diving Equipment Factory is a subsidiary of Shanghai Salvage Company (SSC) and is the only factory in China specialising in the manufacture of heavy diving equipment. The long term joint venture agreement brings the two companies together as Wuhu Divex Diving Systems Limited and is dedicated to the manufacture of advanced diving systems for the China market.

This joint venture allows JFD and Wuhu Diving Equipment Plant to grow together within the Chinese underwater arena. As both have extensive track records of designing, manufacturing and installing diving systems the partnership allows Wuhu Divex Diving Systems to provide a strengthened comprehensive offering.

JFD Managing Director Giovanni Corbetta states:

“We are thrilled to have partnered with a successful and experienced company such as Wuhu Diving Equipment Factory. This partnership will allow access to greater resources in China providing not just an economic benefit to the company but a stronger portfolio and capability. We are very much looking forward to operating as Wuhu Divex Diving Systems Limited within the Chinese sector.”

JFD were recently awarded a multi-million pound contract to build a 500m saturation diving system in China. The contract, valued in the region of £35m, is for the design and build of a 24-man saturation diving system capable of diving to depths of 500m. Incorporating JFD’s advanced state-of-the-art technology the 24-man system will allow the safe conduct of 500m diving, which is significantly beyond the depth rating of the majority of standard diving systems.

28 November 2016

Planned upgrade approved for JFD’s National Hyperbaric Centre (NHC) designed for reception of 24-man SPHLs.

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National Hyperbaric Centre announces expansion and development plans to facilitate new generation 24-man SPHL’s
Ensures NHC retains its leading position within the diving industry
JFD provides a centre of excellence for hyperbaric rescue facilities, offering a comprehensive service to operators across the North Sea.

JFD, the world-leading subsea operations and manufacturing company, is pleased to announce the planned expansion of its National Hyperbaric Centre’s fixed hyperbaric reception facility (HRF) from an 18-man to a 24-man system.

Housing the only land-based saturation diving system in the UK, the National Hyperbaric Centre (NHC) has worked in collaboration with North Sea diving contractors to help ensure the safety of saturation divers in case of an emergency over the last 28 years, successfully providing a comprehensive 18-man emergency hyperbaric reception facility.

In response to larger diving support vessels coming into operation in the North Sea, the expansion will ensure NHC retains its leading position in the diving industry, with the ability to support and facilitate the arrival of the new generation 24-man self-propelled hyperbaric lifeboats (SPHLs). It will be one of only a few facilities in the UK that is able to support the reception of larger SPHLs and benefits from being connected to a dedicated DMAC 028 (Diving Medical Advisory Committee) compliant medical chamber.

Giovanni Corbetta, JFD managing director said:
“JFD is delighted to announce that a major operator has already signed a contract for the provision of 24-man reception capability. NHC has retained a successful reputation as a highly capable HRF facility over many years, and so, JFD is happy to invest in developments which will enable the centre to continue to support its clients as their needs develop.”

Included in the expansion is the design and manufacture of a new hyperbaric module which consists of a transfer under pressure (TUP) chamber and spool piece which will provide a critical link between the 24-man SPHL and the NHC’s decompression chambers. The TUP will be contained within a steel support structure (Support Module) with a bespoke cradle which provides alignment, support and portability for the 24-man SPHL. The NHC building will also be extended and its overhead crane handling capabilities enhanced so it can accommodate the larger 24-man SPHLs’.

The current life support systems within the NHC are designed to support a maximum occupancy of 18 people. As part of the extension, the existing decompression chambers will be adapted and removable modules will be available to accommodate a maximum of 30 people during the medical treatment and decompression process, providing a facility suitable for treatment of the most complex of diving-related medical emergencies.

All the above works will be designed and delivered in accordance with IMCA guidelines and pressure boundary works will require Lloyds Register Certification.

Once completed, the expansion will result in the NHC being one of the most capable and adaptable reception facilities in the UK supported by the most knowledgeable staff in the world.

The enhanced capability is further strengthened by the addition of a portable 18-man HRF which was delivered to NHC early November. As part of its commitment to subsea safety, JFD has positioned itself as the centre of excellence for hyperbaric rescue facilities by offering a comprehensive service which can support operators across the whole of the North Sea.

23 November 2016

JFD SECURES MULTI MILLION POUND CONTRACT TO BUILD 500M SATURATION DIVING SYSTEM FOR SHANGHAI SALVAGE

JFD awarded a multi-million pound contract to design, manufacture and install two x 12 man saturation dive systems for return customer
500m depth rating will make it one of deepest systems in the world
The contract will strengthen JFD’s presence in the Chinese market

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JFD, the leading global subsea operations and engineering company and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, today announces that it has been awarded a major contract with Shanghai Salvage, one of the biggest professional salvage companies in China.

The contract, valued in the region of £35m, is for the design and build of a 24 man saturation dive system capable of diving to depths of 500m, to help strengthen Shanghai Salvage’s subsea operational capability and support its growth into deeper diving operations.

Drawing upon JFD’s wealth of engineering expertise, the new 24 man system will be built to incorporate advanced, state-of-the-art technology which will allow the safe conduct of 500m diving, which is significantly beyond the depth rating of the majority of standard diving systems.

The build consists of two independent 12 man saturation diving systems including diving bell, hyperbaric lifeboat, gas management and life support equipment built into a single lift module. The systems can be deployed individually on vessels of opportunity or installed together on board a newly designed dive support vessel (DSV).

JFD has enjoyed a ten year partnership with government–owned Shanghai Salvage, following the award of a contract in 2007/08 for the supply of a 300m rated saturation diving system. The delivered system has subsequently performed successfully on board the DSV ‘Shen Qian Hao’, achieving the Chinese record deepest saturation dive in 2014.

With a long standing reputation for the manufacture of saturation dive systems that lead the way in terms of specification and capability, JFD was best placed to accept this engineering challenge. The 24 man saturation dive system will include the engineering, procurement, construction, installation and maintenance of two x 12 man saturation dive system modules that are fully International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) and Lloyds Register compliant.
Giovanni Corbetta, JFD managing director said:
“The decision to assign the contract to JFD is testament to our proven capability. Shanghai Salvage has recognised the key benefits associated with JFD systems and we are delighted to support them once again as their diving operations advance into deeper waters. JFD prides itself on its refined engineering expertise which has been developed over the past 35 years, allowing us to deliver highly specialised and technologically advanced systems of exceptional quality.”

This award is the result of several years’ business development effort into the Chinese market. JFD anticipates that as a result of the contract, their presence will be strengthened in the region, making China a significant market for the company.

For more information see www.james-fisher.com

Media contact:

Name: Debbie Allan

Title: Head of Marketing
Tel: +44 (0)1224 270083

E-mail: d.allan@jfdglobal.com

Business contact:

Name: Valerio Percoco

Title: Business Acquisition Director

Tel: +44 (0)1224 740 145

E-mail: v.percoco@jfdglobal.com

5 September 2016

JFD’s National Hyperbaric Centre takes the lead in improving diver safety worldwide with Fugro agreement

NHC signs new agreement with Fugro to run training courses from their Fugro Academy Training Centre
The use of this centre allows NHC to provide better facilities and enhanced customer experience
This allows the NHC to expand their global presence as a training provider, into Abu Dhabi

JFD, the world-leading subsea operations and manufacturing company, is pleased to announce the signing of a new agreement with Fugro to provide training courses delivered by the National Hyperbaric Centre (NHC), part of JFD Ltd, at the Fugro Academy Training Centre in Abu Dhabi.

The agreement with Fugro will see JFD approved local and UK trainers delivering the full range of courses that are currently offered by the NHC including: Client Representative, Dive System Auditing & Assurance, Dive Technician and Kirby Morgan Helmet Technician courses. The first scheduled course is the ROV Auditing & Assurance course which will take place on (13^th – 15^th September).

Subsea and diver safety is of paramount to JFD and one of our core company values. We aim to improve the safety of our customers by taking a leading role in improving standards worldwide. The collaboration with Fugro means the NHC shall be delivering courses from the best facilities available providing a greater experience to our customers.

The addition of another training facility allows the NHC to expand their global presence and provide training services to a wider audience.

Laura Stewart, Head of Sales – Commercial Services, stated: “We are delighted to partner with Fugro in Abu Dhabi with this venture. It supports our strategy to increase our visibility and footprint across the globe and to ultimately promote Subsea and Diver safety within the industry. We have reviewed a number of our courses in terms of the material and content and I am confident that we have Industry Authorities delivering the training in top class facilities regardless of the courses being run in the UK or abroad. Travelling to the UK to receive training can be very costly to individuals, operators and companies so it makes sense for us to take our products abroad.”

Delegates will have access to Fugro’s two 15-20 capacity training rooms, a computer training room and on site ROV and Dive systems in order to carry the practical modules of courses.

Andrew McNeill, Global Talent Development Manager at Fugro commented: “We are pleased to be supporting the NHC with this venture into the Middle East region. Our knowledge of the region, combined with expertise in ROV and diving operations, will play a significant role in improving the training and competence of personnel here.”

To find out more information about the courses on offer in Abu Dhabi, please visit www.jfdglobal.com or alternatively contact the NHC on +44 (0) 1224 698895

1 August 2016

Specialist provider of diving equipment becomes part of JFD

James Fisher and Sons plc acquires LEXMAR to become part of JFD

LEXMAR enhances JFD’s saturation diving capability and offering
LEXMAR / JFD will improve the regional support and capability to Defence markets within the Asia Pacific Region

JFD, the world-leading subsea operations and manufacturing company and part of James Fisher and Sons plc, is pleased to announce the acquisition of LEXMAR.

LEXMAR was founded in 1996 in Singapore and specialises in the design and manufacturing of In-built and Modular Saturation Diving Systems, and is an established provider of Diving Equipment and Services to the Offshore industry.

The business, complementary to JFD’s specialist technical division, is currently completing three 18 man twin bell saturation diving systems. They are currently in the process of undertaking installation and commissioning in China and will commence the third system in Singapore early 2017.

The inclusion of LEXMAR as part of JFD improves the company’s capability and offering of specialist diving equipment services to the Asia Pacific market, enhances the production capacity and customer support in this area, as well as strengthening our support to the Singaporean Navy for all activities related to submarine rescue.

Giovanni Corbetta, JFD’s MD, commented: “We are delighted to welcome LEXMAR to the JFD family and are excited at the opportunities this presents to us, particularly within the Asia Pacific region. The addition of LEXMAR brings JFD to the forefront of diving equipment capability and saturation diving systems offering and support and will further strengthen our vision to support our clients’ core operations by offering market leading technology solutions and world class support.”

Marieke Barker, LEXMAR’s CEO, added: “We are very happy to become part of the JFD family as this acquisition provides unique opportunities to grow. LEXMAR has come a long way and we are proud and thankful of what we have accomplished and ready to go to the next level with JFD. Together we are strong!”

JFD are currently completing two saturation diving systems and commissioning is underway in both Norway and Baku. With a track record spanning the last 35 years, the company’s track record shows more than 100 systems built

NEWS:

Last month saw JFD exhibit at DSEI in London. With over 30,000 attendees the show is one of the largest defence exhibitions worldwide.

Held at the ExCel Centre in London we were proud to exhibit our complete offering to the defence diving market which included our range of Swimmer Delivery Vehicles; Seal Carrier and Torpedo Seal alongside the Divex rebreather range, equipment and accessories.

To view images from the show and download copies of the JFD brochures, please visit: DSEI 2015

The exhibition was a great success with many key contacts made and as you’ll see from the pictures the kit looked fantastic!

Thanks to all who came to visit our stand.

Many thanks
JFD

Divex merges with James Fisher Defence to become JFD

In 2013 Divex Ltd. was acquired by James Fisher and Sons plc. The move brought together the quality and assurance for which we are renowned with the operational pedigree of James Fisher Defence.

Since the acquisition, the two companies have continued to trade under their own names. As of July, the trading name of both JF Defence and Divex has become, simply, JFD.

What does this mean for you?

Our service to new and existing customers will improve.

Our commitment to quality, safety and assurance will remain our top priority.
Our Research & Development programmes will continue at increased pace.
JFD will continue to offer the complete portfolio of Divex brand products.
The Divex brand will be maintained at the product level and will remain a mark of quality, reliability and innovation.
The range of products and services we offer you will increase.

Our relationship won’t change.

Our legal entity will remain Divex Ltd.
The terms and conditions of existing contracts are not affected.
There is no requirement for novation of contracts.
Our contact details, with the exception of our e-mail addresses, will remain unchanged.
The convention for e-mail addresses will be [initial].[surname]@jfdglobal.com
You’ll continue to work with the same people; all of our employees are being retained.

We will continue to work from our existing offices and sites around the world.

Please feel free to contact us at any time if you’d like to discuss how this may affect you and your team. We thank you for your custom, and look forward to providing greater service in the future.

JAMES FISHER AND SONS PLC ACQUISITION OF DIVEX LIMITED

Aberdeen, Scotland – 6 March 2013

International diving equipment technology company Divex are pleased to advise that late on the 5^th March 2013 they completed the sale of Divex Limited to James Fisher & Sons plc.

Divex, who are based in Aberdeen Scotland, has grown continuously through both acquisition and internal and organic growth. The company is now on the cusp of another significant period of growth with the global replacement of ageing Diving Support vessels (DSVs). Having the backing of James Fisher plc will help the company through this exciting period.

Current Directors and Senior Management at Divex Limited will be involved going forward. For the 240 members of staff currently employed by Divex Limited, there will be no immediate changes to working practices and business will continue as usual.

Derek Clarke, Joint Managing Director at Divex, comments:

“We actually started the process of finding a suitable parent company some three years ago and we sought a company where we had a good fit and a similar ethos and culture. We thought James Fisher would be an excellent parent back then and the discussions that have taken place over the passing months only reinforced that view. Our dual market sectors of oil and gas and defence fit perfectly and we will functionally operate within James Fisher Marine Services Ltd.

We are very comfortable with this development which provides a far more stable foundation to enable Divex to go to the next level.”

Divex are situated at their headquarters in Westhill, Aberdeen, Scotland. Divex is recognised as the global industry leader in the design, supply, manufacture, research and development of diving and subsea equipment for the international commercial (offshore, inshore & onshore) anddefencediving, submarine rescue, hyperbaric medical and renewable energy markets.

Explore the elements of a submarine rescue system and how JFD provide complete submarine rescue capabillities to Australia & Singapore.

Highest Honour Award for AUV UXO Team Discovering WWII Submarine

TEXCON Submarine Emergency Escape System (SEES) – ARMADILLO

CONTACT US FOR ALL YOUR SMERAS REQUIREMENTS:

TECHNICAL: Neil Hopkins

MANAGEMENT: Sam Hopkins

OFFICE: Charlie Harrison

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Find out more about the ‘Agile’ Submarine Rescue System here: LINK

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JFD establishes JFD North America to provide underwater capabilities to the USA and Americas

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The requirement

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Testing outcome

JFD awarded extension of prestigious NATO submarine rescue system contract

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BLACK CARILLON 2019 – WATCH JFD VIDEO HERE

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