TSS Challenger will join sister vessel TSS Cruiser in early 2027, expanding TSSM’s fleet supporting offshore wind construction, commissioning and maintenance operations in Taiwanese waters
Damen has launched the second of two Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOV 9020) under construction for Taiwan-based offshore wind operator Ta San Shang Marine Co., Ltd. (TSSM), marking another milestone in the expansion of the company’s fleet to support the country’s growing offshore wind sector.
TSSM, a joint venture between Japan’s Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and Taiwan’s Ta Tong Marine Co., Ltd., will deploy the new vessel to support offshore wind farm construction, commissioning and maintenance operations in Taiwanese waters.
When delivered in early 2027, the Commissioning Service Operation Vessel, to be named TSS Challenger, will join the Damen-built TSS Cruiser, in the company’s fleet. Damen is constructing the vessel in Ha Long, Vietnam. The yard features modern facilities and operates to the safety and quality standards demanded by the offshore industry.
Damen’s CSOV 9020 is also designed in line with the stringent requirements of the offshore energy sectors. The vessel’s hull form ensures exceptional sea-keeping and stability, providing comfort for the up to 120 personnel on board.
Crew and technicians are accommodated in hotel-class cabins and (dis)embark the vessel via a safe, motion-compensated walkway. The vessel’s design provides ample storage for equipment and supplies to support operations throughout the lifecycle of offshore energy structures.
The optimised hull of the vessel also results in lower fuel consumption. This, combined with the CSOV 9020’s hybrid diesel-electric propulsion arrangement, offers a considerable reduction in emissions.
To ensure the vessel’s continued relevance in the years ahead, the CSOV 9020 is further prepared for future operation on (green) methanol.
Thomas Röwekamp, Regional Sales Director Asia-Pacific, at Damen said, “We are pleased to have reached this latest milestone in the construction of these two vessels for TSSM. The CSOV 9020 draws on years of experience in the European offshore wind industry. The capabilities of the vessel have been tailored and fine-tuned to support the rapid development of the Asian market. As such, these vessels are well positioned to support TSSM – and its clients – in developing a sustainable regional energy sector in the coming years.”
