(WO) — DOF Group ASA has secured nearly $2 billion in long-term contracts with Petrobras for four new ROV support vessels (RSVs) that will support subsea inspection, maintenance and repair (IMR) operations offshore Brazil.
The 12-year charter and services agreements, awarded following a competitive tender process, will support Petrobras’ deepwater developments beginning in 2030. The contracts include construction of four newbuild vessels expected to be built at Brazil’s Navship yard.
According to DOF, the DP2-class RSVs will measure approximately 98 meters in length with a 20-meter beam and will be equipped with offshore subsea cranes, two work-class remotely operated vehicles (WROVs), and accommodations for up to 58 personnel. The vessels are designed for deepwater operations and will feature hybrid propulsion systems utilizing ethanol, diesel and battery packs as part of the company’s lower-emissions fleet renewal strategy.
Delivery of the first two vessels is expected within four years of contract signing, aligned with the planned startup schedule for Petrobras operations.
DOF said financing for the vessels is expected to include a significant portion of local development debt funding. While the vessels will be operated entirely by DOF Subsea Brasil under the contracts, the company said it is evaluating alternative ownership structures for the assets as part of its financial strategy.
“We are very proud to be awarded these contracts by Petrobras,” said Mons S. Aase, CEO of DOF Group ASA. “Winning contracts for newbuilds backed by 12-year contracts enables low-risk growth and environmentally friendly fleet renewal while manifesting DOF’s position as a leading player for subsea inspection, maintenance and repair services in the Brazilian market.”
Aase added that the awards highlight the long-term outlook for Brazil’s offshore sector and continued demand for subsea services in one of the world’s largest deepwater markets.
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