STAPEM Group brings Sonardyne Ranger 2 onboard

Operating in one of STAPEM Group’s key regions, Angola, the vessel is now equipped with a Ranger 2 GyroUSBL 7000 system, an all-in-one, high-performance USBL system for precise positioning performance, previously used on a hire basis.

Ranger 2 GyroUSBL 7000 is optimised for ultra-deepwater operations and, like all Ranger 2 GyroUSBL systems, includes a single, pre-calibrated transceiver head. Its integrated attitude and heading reference system (AHRS)/inertial navigation system (INS), eliminates mechanical alignment errors, making it easy to deploy and increases tracking precision.

Onboard the 2024-delivered STAPEM Boreale, it will support remotely operated vehicle (ROV) operations, including inspection, survey and intervention work, by Film-Ocean – a STAPEM Group company.

This often requires long layback tracking, touchdown monitoring and precision navigation close to subsea assets – scenarios where the accuracy and reliability of the Ranger 2 GyroUSBL system bring real value.

The investment reflects STAPEM Group’s wider strategy of continuously upgrading its subsea technology portfolio. This includes already having equipped the 59.5 m long vessel with an SMD Atom work class ROV, fitted with Sonardyne combined solid state AHRS and Syrinx Doppler velocity log (DVL) and a Wideband Sub Mini 6+ (WSM 6+) transponder.

“STAPEM Group’s investment reinforces the STAPEM Boreale as a versatile platform, ensuring permanent access to high-precision subsea positioning, improved reliability and strengthened operational autonomy. We’re delighted to be supporting them as they continuously invest in their subsea technology capability and efficiency,” says Alan MacDonald, Head of Sales, UK, Europe and Africa, at Sonardyne.

“The STAPEM Boreale embodies our vision to continuously invest in the future of subsea operations,” says Jean-Marc Gerber, CEO of STAPEM Group. “By combining advanced positioning solutions like the Ranger 2 GyroUSBL system, with our new Atom work-class ROV, we strengthen our capacity to deliver safe, efficient and cost-effective subsea services for our clients in West Africa.”

Mike Mackie, Operations Director at Film-Ocean, adds, “The Ranger 2 delivers the accuracy and reliability required for our subsea operations. Its integration on the STAPEM Boreale enhances our ability to provide precise positioning during inspection, intervention and survey campaigns, even in the most challenging offshore conditions.”

Image: The STAPEM Boreale. Image from STAPEM Group.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/equipment-and-safety/25112025/stapem-group-brings-sonardyne-ranger-2-onboard/