Jan De Nul selects Ulstein Design & Solutions for new subsea trenching vessel design

Jan De Nul's decision to commission Ulstein Design & Solutions for a new subsea trenching vessel design represents a clear strategic investment in future-proofing its specialized offshore capabilities. This development-stage project prioritizes an ultra-low emission system, integrating biofuel and green methanol engines to enhance efficiency and environmental compliance for burying pipelines, power, and telecom cables. The selection of Ulstein's proprietary ULSTEIN X-BOW hull further underscores a commitment to advanced marine engineering for operational gains. With the completed vessel anticipated for delivery in 2028, this supply agreement positions the Belgian contractor for long-term competitiveness in a decarbonizing marine infrastructure market. As a leading Belgian family-owned infrastructure contractor with over 7,000 employees, Jan De Nul is leveraging this design mandate to reinforce its extensive portfolio in offshore energy infrastructure and marine construction. For Ulstein Design & Solutions, a Norwegian naval architecture and marine engineering firm specializing in advanced vessels, securing this commission validates its expertise in innovative, sustainable marine solutions. The emphasis on biofuel and green methanol engines for the 2028-delivered asset reflects a broader industry imperative to transition specialized fleets towards greener operational profiles. This project demonstrates how established players are adapting their asset base to meet evolving environmental standards in the subsea sector.