Vard has launched the hull of cable-laying vessel NB 969 at its Tulcea yard in Romania, marking the project’s move into the next stage of construction.

The vessel is being built for NKT and is intended for large-scale offshore cable operations. According to Vard, it will have a cable capacity of 23,000 tonnes and will be equipped with advanced dynamic positioning systems.

The shipbuilder said the vessel will also feature dual-fuel engines capable of operating on low-carbon methanol.

Vard described the launch as an example of its integrated value chain approach in delivering tailor-made vessels that support the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure.

The company congratulated NKT and its team in Tulcea on reaching the milestone.

Vard is part of the Fincantieri group, whilst NKT is a power cable manufacturer and supplier serving offshore wind and other energy infrastructure projects.