DSV Adams Challenge Contract Won
(2/9/2008) MES have been awarded a contract working with Astilleros Balenciaga to supply and fit the integrated bridge equipment onboard Adams Offshore newest vessel the DSV Adams Challenge. The vessel will be a dynamically positioned diesel electric powered multi role offshore support vessel with a dual redundant dynamic positioning system configured to and suitable for supporting a wide range of offshore support activities.
BAE Systems acquire 40% stake in MES (12th Feb 2007)
We are delighted and very proud to report that defence giant BAE Systems Integrated System Technologies (Insyte) has acquired a 40% stake in MES. The remaining 60% shareholding remains in private hands. The Insyte Strategy Department identified the effectiveness of MES when operating in both the commercial marine and naval segments and how that has led to MES punching above its weight in winning some high profile contracts in UK shipbuilding. Insyte wishes MES to support its low end combat systems export business and provide navigation systems expertise and bridge integration systems for the larger Insyte naval contracts. The Insyte senior management were acutely aware of the need to ensure that MES continues to operate a lean organisational structure, remain highly competitive and to offer the current level of service to its customers; and therefore are applying a light touch in a growth strategy for MES. Steve Howells has been appointed Business Development Director and will work closely with MD Mike Whitlock to herald an exciting future for the company.
Mini Integrated Bridge System on Hovercraft for Swedish Navy (12th Feb 2007)
MES has successfully completed a contract to supply a mini IBS for the first of 3 hovercraft built by Griffon Hovercraft Ltd for the Swedish Navy. The system core comprises the Transas Navisailor 3000i ECDIS and the Transas Naviradar PC based Chart/radar. These are displayed on 2 19" Hatteland series II Flat Screen monitors with a 3rd monitor showing the conning display. The conning display was a bespoke design developed here at MES. We opted for this solution when it was realised that existing products on the market would not suit the specific operating controls of a hovercraft. In addition, engine instruments and a limited alarm system was incorporated.
The bridge monitors are multifunctional and enable the Navigator and Pilot to interact and share information in order to navigate the hovercraft safely at high speeds in the Swedish Archpelago. In order to better understand this requirement our MD, Mike Whitlock, who has a background in navigation, visited Sweden to sea ride with the navy and observe their high speed navigation techniques at first hand. The system was adapted accordingly to best suit these techniques.
Mike reports that during sea trials he was particularly pleased with the performance of the latest version of Naviradar which, with a chart underlay and AIS interface provides a significantly enhanced situational awareness for the operator.
