Türkiye’s Tersan Shipyard Begins Construction of Cutting-Edge Cable-Laying Vessel for LS Marine Solution
In a significant move for the maritime industry, Türkiye’s Tersan Shipyard has initiated the construction of an ultra-large cable-laying vessel (CLV) commissioned by South Korea’s LS Marine Solution. This vessel aims to revolutionize subsea cable installation, showcasing Türkiye’s growing prominence in the global shipbuilding sector.
The Contract and Investment Details
The collaboration between LS Marine Solution and Tersan Shipyard solidified when a contract was signed in June 2025. This partnership represents a substantial investment of approximately €221 million, underscoring both companies’ commitment to innovative maritime solutions. The project promises to enhance subsea capabilities significantly, setting the stage for advanced cable installation methods.
Vessel Specifications and Design
Expertly designed by Norwegian Salt Ship Design, the CLV is poised to be a game changer in the field. With an impressive length of 148.4 meters and a width of 31 meters, the vessel will boast a remarkable load capacity of 13,000 tons alongside a total displacement of 18,800 tons. Such dimensions emphasize its capability to undertake significant subsea operations, positioning it among the world’s top five in cable loading capacity.
Unique Laying Capabilities
One of the standout features of this new cable-laying vessel is its ability to simultaneously lay high-voltage direct current (HVDC) submarine cables alongside fiber optic cables. This dual-functionality is particularly critical in today’s tech-centric environment, where efficient data transmission and energy transfer are paramount. Moreover, it will be the largest cable-laying vessel in Asia and Korea’s sole specialized HVDC installation vessel, marking a milestone in the region’s technological advancement.
Steel-Cutting Ceremony
The momentous steel-cutting ceremony took place on July 6, signaling the inception of the vessel’s construction. With delivery anticipated in the first half of 2028, the timeline reflects Tersan Shipyard’s dedication to maintaining a high standard of craftsmanship while adhering to tight schedules in the shipbuilding industry.
Advanced Technology Integration
Norway’s Kongsberg Maritime is tasked with providing an integrated technology package for the vessel. This collaboration will ensure that the CLV is equipped with the latest innovations in maritime technology, enhancing its operational efficiency and safety measures.
Strategic Implications for LS Cable & System
The construction of the CLV aligns strategically with LS GreenLink, LS Cable & System’s U.S.-based submarine cable manufacturing subsidiary. As LS GreenLink gears up for commercial production in 2028, this new installation vessel will play a pivotal role in complementing localized manufacturing efforts. The synergy between manufacturing and installation capabilities positions LS Cable & System to deliver a comprehensive, end-to-end turnkey solution across North America and Europe.
The Future of Subsea Energy
As the demand for reliable subsea energy solutions continues to escalate—driven by the global transition to renewable energy—the launch of this state-of-the-art cable-laying vessel is a significant development within the industry. It stands not only as a technical marvel but also as a testament to the collaboration between nations and companies in advancing the field of subsea technology.
With projects like this, the maritime sector is set to undergo significant transformations, enhancing the infrastructure needed to support a sustainable and technologically driven future.