Steerprop, a renowned provider of maritime propulsion solutions, has been selected to supply main propulsion and tunnel thrusters for the Canadian Coast Guard’s Multi-Purpose Vessels (MPVs) renewal program. This significant contract marks a milestone in enhancing Canada’s maritime capabilities and underscores Steerprop’s expertise in delivering tailored propulsion solutions for challenging environments.
The agreement encompasses the provision of propulsion packages for the initial six MPVs, a crucial aspect of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS). Central to Steerprop’s offering are two tunnel thrusters for auxiliary propulsion and two Contra-Rotating Propulsors (CRP) for main propulsion. These components are intricately designed to meet the rigorous operational demands posed by the Arctic waters where the vessels will operate.
Steerprop’s reputation for excellence in developing ice-strengthened propulsion systems is evident in this comprehensive solution. The CRP units not only fulfill propulsion requirements but also aid in efficient ice management, vital for ensuring safe navigation and swift emergency responses in icy conditions. Moreover, the design prioritizes energy efficiency, enabling optimal performance even at lower power levels, thus reducing energy consumption while maximizing operational flexibility and dependability.
Juho Rekola, Director of Sales and Project Management at Steerprop, emphasized the company’s dedication to delivering top-tier propulsion systems and engineering support. He stated, “Our commitment to delivering the best possible propulsion systems and engineering support for our customers is at the heart of everything we do at Steerprop. This project exemplifies our resolve to support our customer in enhancing vessel performance and environmental friendliness without compromising on stringent requirements for operational availability.”
Rekola further highlighted the strategic significance of the contract for Steerprop, emphasizing its role in fostering growth and establishing a lasting presence in Canada. He added, “This contract not only guarantees significant growth and a stable workload for an extended period but also plays a vital role in shaping the future of Steerprop. Establishing a permanent presence in Canada, this project further strengthens our expansion efforts across North America.”
Seaspan Shipyards, responsible for executing the MPV program, expressed satisfaction in awarding this pivotal contract to Steerprop. David Belton, Senior Program Director, Multi-Purpose Vessels at Seaspan Shipyards, remarked, “Seaspan Shipyards is pleased to award this mission-critical propulsion system contract which will help enable the Canadian Coast Guard to safely and efficiently operate the MPVs across the wide range of environmental conditions encountered in Canadian waters.”
This collaboration between Steerprop and Seaspan Shipyards signifies a concerted effort to bolster Canada’s maritime capabilities through cutting-edge propulsion technology. As the project progresses, it is poised to not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to the safety and environmental sustainability of Canada’s coastal waters.
