Shanghai Zhenhua launches SOV for European offshore wind support

SHANGHAI, Sept. 4, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (ZPMC) has launched the first service operation vessel (SOV) built for French shipping group LD Armateurs (LDA), marking a significant step in ZPMC's efforts to serve Europe’s offshore wind industry with high-end equipment. The vessel, named The Wind of Ocean, will provide support and maintenance services for two major offshore wind farms in Germany.

The SOV, measuring 90 meters in length, 19.6 meters in width, and 7.3 meters in depth, is designed to operate in the challenging conditions of the North Sea. It can accommodate up to 96 people and has an endurance of over 30 days without resupply, making it suitable for unrestricted service. The vessel features a diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system with lithium batteries, a Dynamic Positioning Class 2 (DP2) system, a 3D motion-compensated crane, and a wave-compensated gangway, ensuring safe personnel and equipment transfers even in high sea states.

ZPMC has equipped The Wind of Ocean with a combination of advanced technologies to enhance efficiency, safety, and comfort. The vessel is designed as a "floating hotel," offering lower-emission operations, offshore safety, and comfortable living quarters for crew members and maintenance technicians. The next-generation SOV is expected to play a crucial role in supporting the long-term operations and maintenance of the DanTysk and Sandbank offshore wind farms in the German North Sea.

Construction of the second SOV in the series has already reached the keel-laying milestone, signifying the start of a new phase in ZPMC’s collaboration with LDA. Once completed, the two vessels will provide essential support services, including equipment servicing and spare parts replacement, throughout the operational lifecycles of the wind farms.

This project represents a significant milestone in ZPMC's strategy to cater to Europe’s growing offshore wind sector, underscoring the company's commitment to delivering high-quality, environmentally friendly equipment tailored to the needs of the industry.