Ports Authority launches first tugboat {Al faw 1} dedicated to Al Faw Port
The General Company for Iraqi Ports announced Wednesday, the launch of the first marine tug for the Grand Faw Port, confirming its readiness to enter service as soon as the port is operational, coinciding with the successful completion of its floatation as a crucial technical stage, in preparation for completing the delivery and operation phases.
The company’s general manager, Farhan Al-Fartousi, said in a statement received by Al-Furat News that “the launch of this tug represents a strategic step within the operational preparations for the Grand Faw Port,” noting that “strengthening the tugboat and maritime pilotage fleet is an essential element to ensure the smooth flow of maritime traffic and the reception of large ships with the highest levels of safety and efficiency.”
He added that “the tug was designed according to the latest international standards, and it has high maneuverability capabilities thanks to the ASD (Automatic Drive System), which makes it able to operate efficiently in complex navigational environments and within narrow basins and channels.”
He added that “the tug belongs to the (ASD Tug 3212) class, and its length is (32.7) m, and its width is (12.8) m, while its operational draft reaches (5.9) m, and it operates at a speed ranging between (12 and 13) knots.”
He explained that “the design towing capacity is about (80) tons, with an actual performance of up to (78.5) tons in front towing and (74) tons in rear towing, supported by two (Caterpillar 3516C) diesel engines with a total power of (5050) kilowatts, in addition to a rear drive system (Azimuth Thrusters) that provides full maneuverability at an angle of (360) degrees.”
He pointed out that “the tug includes integrated navigation systems including (GMDSS, DGPS, radar, depth gauge, and speed log), in addition to operational tanks of different capacities, including a fuel tank with a capacity of (148.3) m3, and a fresh water tank with a capacity of (15.4) m3, as well as tanks dedicated to fire foam and wastewater.”
He noted, “Additional equipment has also been added to enhance safety and efficiency. The tug has been equipped with a package of additional equipment, including expanding the accommodation to accommodate ten people, an integrated surveillance camera system, a foldable rear service crane, in addition to advanced towing equipment including a (60) ton hook and an additional front towing line.”
He added, “It also includes an integrated (Fi-Fi 1) fire suppression system with a pumping capacity of up to 1200 m3 per hour, along with a CO2 gas fire suppression system for the engine room, and an extensive range of safety equipment.”
He continued, “On the communications side, the tug is equipped with advanced systems including (ECDIS), (VHF) wireless communication networks and (Thuraya) satellite phones, as well as additional support systems such as air filters and cockpit cooling.”
He stressed that “bringing this tug into service, if it starts, will enhance the readiness of the Grand Faw Port to operate its operations with high efficiency,” noting that “the project represents one of the main pillars in the strategy to develop the maritime transport sector and transform Iraq into a regional logistics hub.”
Alforatnews.iq