KBRN, Jakarta: The Indonesian National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), through its Hydrodynamics Technology Research Center, has introduced the Multipurpose Decommissioning and Salvage Vessel (MDSV) during the Marine & Tactical Innovation in Defense Technology talk show on Friday, June 13, 2025.

The vessel is designed to dismantle inactive offshore platforms that pose navigation hazards.

Lead Researcher Abdul Ghofur emphasized that Indonesia has over 600 offshore platforms, of which around 68 are no longer operational and obstruct maritime traffic.

"MDSV addresses these challenges by integrating the functions of a tugboat, pontoon, and crane barge into a single vessel, making offshore platform removal far more efficient and cost-effective," Ghofur explained in a Monday, June 16 statement, as quoted by brin.go.id.

The vessel has undergone laboratory validation and received certification from PT Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (Persero). It has passed technical tests, including numerical simulations and structural strength analysis.

As a member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Indonesia is obligated to remove or repurpose decommissioned offshore installations. "MDSV is designed to meet technical, legal, and economic requirements," Ghofur said.

The vessel complies with national and international regulations, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 1989 IMO Guidelines, ensuring operational readiness.

Equipped with cutting-edge technology, MDSV features an underwater diamond wire cutting tool, a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) capable of operating up to 400 meters deep, and a decompression chamber for six divers.

Its operations include surveying, cutting, lifting, loading, and platform transportation.

A feasibility study indicates that MDSV has a maximum break-even point of eight years, making it a promising long-term investment.

Beyond maritime safety, the vessel enhances domestic technology capabilities and reduces costs compared to renting foreign vessels.

BRIN hopes the MDSV will be adopted through collaborations with technical ministries, industries, and state-owned enterprises in petroleum and defense.

The vessel represents a significant advancement in Indonesia’s maritime technology, reinforcing BRIN’s commitment to delivering innovative and practical solutions. ***