German Government awards Astilleros GONDAN the construction of two advanced hydrographic research vessels
These vessels will feature a high-efficiency propulsion system designed to run on green methanol and certified with the “Blue Angel” environmental label
Astilleros GONDAN has been awarded, after an international tender process lasting approximately three years, the contract to build two new research vessels commissioned by the Bundesamt für Seeschifffahrt und Hydrographie (BSH), the German federal agency responsible for maritime safety and nautical charting.
The project, which includes the construction of the new Wega and Deneb, is part of the German Government’s plan to modernize its research fleet and ensure continuous operations in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. Designed in collaboration with the engineering firm Seaplace and measuring about 70 meters in length and 15 meters in beam, these vessels will feature a high-efficiency propulsion system designed to run on green methanol and certified with the “Blue Angel” environmental label—resulting in a significant reduction in emissions and lower climate impact. measurements:t DNV’s “Silent-R” standard, operating with low noise levels that protect marine wildlife and allow for precise acoustic measurements; they will also be equipped with dynamic positioning and state-of-art hydrographic systems—including the use of underwater and autonomous vehicles—to investigate underwater obstacles, carry out complex subsea tasks, and collect critical oceanographic data for navigation, environmental protection, and Germany’s defence capability.
The shipyard will undertake the construction of these vessels applying the highest standards of engineering, sustainability, and energy efficiency, ensuring a technical development fully aligned with BSH requirements. In addition to strengthening GONDAN’s workload for the coming years, this contract confirms the trust that European public administrations and institutions place in the company’s industrial capability, operational reliability, and construction excellence.