MacGregor Secures Repeat Order for Skywalker CSOV Systems | Mariner News
MacGregor has secured a significant repeat order to supply advanced three-dimensional motion-compensated cranes and Horizon gangway systems for four additional Skywalker-class Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs). The vessels, destined for Integrated Wind Solutions ASA subsidiary IWS Fleet, underscore a sustained investment in high-performance assets for the offshore wind sector.
The order, booked into MacGregor’s fourth-quarter 2026 intake, will see Nantong Rainbow Offshore & Engineering Equipment Co., Ltd. building the CSOVs. Deliveries to IWS Fleet are scheduled for 2029 and 2030, highlighting the long-term planning horizon for new offshore wind capacity.
This repeat selection of MacGregor’s equipment, noted by Nantong Rainbow’s SCM Director Ms. Shanshan Xu, points to the proven technical fit, performance, and reliability of the systems for demanding offshore wind operations. Executive Vice President Lucie Addicks of MacGregor Offshore Solutions emphasized that the strong uptake of the Skywalker class is directly linked to the integrated performance, safety, and reliability offered by their motion-compensated solutions.
The continued investment in specialized Skywalker-class CSOVs equipped with motion-compensated technology signals a clear industry trend towards enhancing operational windows and safety for personnel transfers and cargo handling in challenging offshore environments. For developers and operators like IWS Fleet, this capability is critical for maximizing uptime and efficiency throughout the commissioning and operational phases of wind farms. This repeat order also suggests a degree of standardization around proven vessel designs and equipment for this specialized segment, aiming to reduce operational risk and improve efficiency.
Post-delivery, MacGregor’s global service network will support the equipment, ensuring continued operation and maximizing uptime for critical offshore activities. The substantial lead time for these vessel deliveries further reflects the robust, long-term demand for advanced support infrastructure in the rapidly expanding global offshore wind market.
