Norwegian offshore vessel owner DOF Group has secured a significant four-year contract with Petrobras for the remotely operated support vessel (RSV) Skandi Commander. The contract, valued at approximately $150 million, is expected to commence in January 2027. This latest deal follows a competitive tender process similar to the one that led to six previous four-year RSV contracts awarded earlier this year.
The Skandi Commander will be equipped with both a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) and an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), marking a unique feature of this agreement. The integration of AUV technology represents a forward-thinking approach to underwater inspections and surveys, potentially setting a new standard for offshore support vessels.
This contract is not just a win for DOF Group; it underscores the growing sophistication of offshore operations in Brazil. The inclusion of AUV technology suggests Petrobras is betting on advanced autonomy to enhance efficiency and safety in deepwater operations. For DOF, this means a significant step toward modernizing its fleet and staying ahead in a competitive market.
Mons Aase, DOF Group’s CEO, expressed pride in the company’s achievements in Brazil, highlighting the addition of over $2 billion to their backlog from various tenders this year. “I am proud of our achievements in Brazil this year, adding in excess of USD 2 billion to our backlog from the AHTS, RSV and PIDF tenders. We celebrate a milestone with 25 years of DOF in Brazil this year, and we now have a strong foundation for continued value creation in the years to come with a large portion of our fleet in Brazil on firm contracts that go beyond 2030,” Aase said.
This milestone comes as DOF Group celebrates 25 years of operations in Brazil, a testament to its enduring presence and strategic investments in the region. With a substantial portion of its fleet secured on firm contracts extending beyond 2030, DOF is positioning itself for long-term value creation and stability.
The Skandi Commander’s contract is more than just another deal; it’s a glimpse into the future of offshore support. The integration of AUV technology could pave the way for broader adoption of autonomous systems in the maritime industry. As Petrobras and DOF Group push the boundaries of what’s possible, other operators may follow suit, accelerating the pace of innovation in offshore operations.
For DOF Group, this contract reinforces its commitment to Brazil and its role as a key player in the region’s offshore sector. As the company looks ahead, the focus will likely be on leveraging this momentum to drive further growth and innovation. The maritime industry is watching closely, and the Skandi Commander’s deployment could very well set a new benchmark for offshore support vessels worldwide.