| Service submarines have been developed for support duties in offshore operations in deep waters. Three submarine concepts have been designed for water depths ranging from 400 to 1500 m. The operation philosophy is to use an autonomous manned submarine as a carrier for components, tools and work modules and as a base for IMR operations on subsea installations. The design principles are similar to that of the Space Shuttle incorporating a payload bay, energy supply and a closed environment for the crew and operators. The operation profile of an offshore submarine demands capabilities above those of naval submarines: deep diving, long endurance underwater, dynamic positioning. New technology had to be developed: air-independent energy system, regenerative... |
