Flying the Flag for Scottish Engineering

We are thrilled to present our new Submarine Launch and Recovery to JFD and the Indian Navy this week.

The system was designed and built at our facilities in Govan and Renfrew, and forms part of JFD’s 3rd Generation Submarine Rescue System.

It has been designed for the fast rescue of distressed submariners and can be mobilised in less than 24-hours onto suitable vessels.

Douglas Morrison, Caley’s Managing Director, said: “The Submarine Launch and Recovery System flies the international flag for Scottish engineering.  Its specially-designed features and technological advancements will allow the rapid rescue of submariners.  Given the recent tragic events, fast mobilisation timescales have never been more important.

“The system integrates three decompression chambers and its flexible architecture means it can be mobilised on ships with different deck configurations.  The system is certified to operate in Sea State 6 – some of the harshest sea conditions.”

We used virtual reality software to design and build the system and train crew members from the Indian Navy.

Douglas continued: “Using virtual reality software, we were able to verify the selection of every nut and bolt, and see how different components work together.  We spent two weeks training the crew to operate and maintain the LARS equipment from our boardroom in Govan, and will use it to provide continued through-life support.”

The Specifics: 

  • Port, Central and Starboard Strongbacks
  • Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) Bridge
  • A-Frame and Crossbeam
  • Traversing Carriage
  • Fully-damped Swing Beam
  • Telescopic Leg
  • Gimbal
  • LARS Dimensions:
    • A-Frame Outboard: 24.7m x 10.4m x 12.7m
    • A-Frame at top dead centre: 17m x 10.4m x 16m
    • A-Frame Inboard: 16.8m x 10.4m x 13.5m
    • LARS Weight: 160Te (includes 29.24Te for DCCS, but not submarine weight).

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