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Vard, the Norwegian subsidiary of the Fincantieri Group and one of the major global designers and shipbuilders of specialized vessels, has signed a new contract with the US based research organization Inkfish for the design and construction of one of the most modern research vessels ever developed. The value of the contract exceeds 200 Mill euros.

The custom-built research vessel, project name RV6000, is specially designed for scientific exploration. It will join Inkfish’s growing fleet, alongside RV Hydra and RV Dagon, to support marine research globally. Working closely with host countries, data collected contributes to open-sourced repositories.

The vessel is specifically designed for seafloor mapping, submersible support and ROV operations. It will feature a length of 100 meters and a beam of 20.7 meters, with a maximum speed of 15 knots and an operational autonomy of up to 30 days.

RV6000 has an ROV with operational capacity to reach 6000 m depth and is able to support two manned submersibles. It is equipped with a stern-mounted A-Frame system and a large hangar for maintenance and storage. On the starboard side, an offshore crane equipped with AHC is configured for operations down to 2,500 meters. The vessel is fitted with a hydroacoustic survey system capable of high-resolution seafloor mapping at 0.5 x 1 degrees resolution and water column analysis across all depths.

The technical arrangements include hybrid power generation and propulsion. The hull is developed for advanced seafloor mapping performance as well as superior seakeeping abilities, utilizing advanced anti-roll technologies for reduced motions and accelerations and excellent station keeping performances. The vessel also features state-of-the-art laboratories, offices and workshops, with high-quality accommodation and recreational facilities designed for enhanced comfort. These amenities support up to 70 crew members and scientists and meet the stringent DNV COMF (Comfort Class) notation, with exceptionally low levels of noise and vibration.

“The agreement with InkFish confirms the role of VARD and the Fincantieri Group as key technology partners in the design and construction of highly specialized and advanced naval units," said Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer of Fincantieri. "This collaboration is based on a shared vision rooted in scientific progress and technological innovation, leveraging our engineering know-how to develop a vessel that will set a new benchmark in support of global research. The project reflects our commitment to driving the technological advancement of the naval sector and to addressing, with vision and expertise, the challenges of an ever-evolving global market, transforming them into opportunities for growth and innovation."

Through its integrated value chain, VARD will manage the entire construction process of the vessel, from design and hull construction to outfitting, integration, and commissioning. The hull will be built at one of VARD’s shipyards in Romania, while final outfitting, commissioning, and delivery will take place at one of the Group’s shipyards in Norway. Delivery is scheduled for Q2 2028.

Inkfish is a global philanthropic organization that integrates vessels, engineering, medical innovation, and operational expertise to develop new technologies and further marine research initiatives.