KAUST commissions new regional-class research vessel
RV Thuwal II will explore the Red Sea
Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has agreed with Freire Shipyards to construct a new regional-class research vessel, RV Thuwal II. The ship will be built at Freire Shipyard in Vigo, Spain, and is anticipated to be completed in 2026.
RV Thuwal II will mark Saudi Arabia’s inaugural regional-class research vessel. It will be specifically designed to facilitate comprehensive exploration of the Red Sea, including its coastal areas and deep-sea regions.
As the flagship of Saudi Arabia’s research fleet, the vessel will support various marine research interests, including high-profile giga projects and various Saudi government ministries.
The 50-metre-long vessel, with a width of 12.8 metres and a draft of 3.6 metres, will feature a modular design to accommodate various experimental laboratories and adapt to future marine technologies.
30-year lifespan
This design flexibility will also enable integrating advanced green propulsion systems to reduce the vessel’s carbon footprint over its projected 30-year lifespan. Additionally, RV Thuwal II will be vital in Saudi emergency responses, such as oil spills and maritime accidents.
RV Thuwal II’s scientific capabilities include accommodations for 30 people—12 crew members and 18 researchers. The vessel will be equipped to explore the Red Sea’s most profound areas, deploying remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles to conduct visual and acoustic surveys, sample seawater, and map the seafloor.
Designed by US-based naval architecture and marine engineering firm Glosten, RV Thuwal II will benefit from the US company’s continued off-site engineering support throughout construction. Maritime Survey International of Australia has been appointed as KAUST’s on-site owners’ representative to oversee the daily construction activities.
Numerous stakeholders
The planning process for RV Thuwal II has engaged numerous stakeholders across Saudi Arabia, including giga-projects, government ministries, and universities with expertise in ocean science and marine operations.
Pierre Magistretti, KAUST Vice President of Research, said: “RV Thuwal II symbolises KAUST’s commitment to enhancing Saudi Arabia’s research infrastructure and the exploration of the Red Sea. The ship will be accessible to partners with a shared interest in understanding the Red Sea and unlocking its vast potential.”
Marcos Friere Garcia, Director General of Freire Shipyard, added: “It is an honour for Freire Shipyard to partner with KAUST on RV Thuwal II. This vessel represents KAUST’s dedication to advancing research and exploration and fosters new opportunities for scientific collaboration and technological advancement in the region.”
The Red Sea is a critical element in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and beyond, influencing food security, water management, and urban planning. The new research vessel is expected to contribute significantly to these fields, generate numerous job opportunities, and enhance global understanding of marine environments.
Featured image: CGI of the RV Thuwal II. Credit: KAUST
