Grandweld, a United Arab Emirates-based shipbuilding, ship repair and conversion specialist, has secured a major contract worth US$128 million for the construction of three new Salvage Tugs for Sogeport-GICEP of Algeria. Grandweld is a division of GMMOS Group, a leading provider of marine services to the offshore oil & gas industry backed by Abraaj Capital and Waha Capital.

"This contract for three 58m Salvage Tugs is yet another achievement for Grandweld and has helped us maintain a strong and healthy order book into 2012,"says Mr. Jamal Abki, General Manager of Grandweld. He further says: "International recognition, experience, quality of work and commitment for on-time delivery at Grandweld are some of the strengths that helped us win this contract."

Contracts have been signed with the ports of Algiers, Arzew and Skikda for the three vessels intended for sea search-and-rescue operations in co-operation with the Algerian Coast Guard. The vessels will each be delivered during the time frame between 26 to 31 months. Powered by two 4,000kw diesel engines to achieve bollard pull of 130t, these vessels will be designed to meet unmanned machinery requirements with FIFI 2 and DP capabilities as per the requirements of the owners.

From its shipyard at Al Jadaf in Dubai, Grandweld has built a strong reputation for on-time delivery of high-quality offshore vessels within budget. Established in 1984, Grandweld has developed into one of the leading shipbuilders in the GCC region with a portfolio of both steel and aluminum vessels. Grandweld is dedicated to providing international standards in shipbuilding that has gained international attention with a global client base spread.