FEBRUARY 6, 2013 — Rolls-Royce says that an offshore vessel under construction for Simon Møkster Shipping will be the first in the world to feature its innovative Unified Bridge solution — which it calls "a step change in vessel operation."

The bridge is being installed on a UT 776 WP platform supply vessel currently being built by Spanish shipyard Astilleros Gondan. The vessel design with the striking wave piercing bow, main systems and equipment are all provided by Rolls-Royce. On completion in 2014 the vessel will be chartered by Statoil.

As offshore ships have become more technologically advanced and able to perform more highly specialized duties, their bridges have become more complex.

The Rolls-Royce Unified Bridge has been designed to deal with this issue based on both the company's own research and feedback from customers. It is designed to simplify the range of controls, panels and displays for the various onboard systems and provide significantly improved ergonomics and easier operation which enhances operator and crew safety and improves task efficiency.

The bridge layout can be tailored to meet the needs of a number of different vessels.

Anders Almestad, Rolls-Royce, President – Offshore, said: "Working aboard ships in the offshore sector can be hugely demanding on crews, where concentration, visibility and rapid response are essential for safe operations. The Unified Bridge was developed after an in-depth study of bridge system requirements for the navigation and operation of vessels focused on ergonomic design, safety, performance and simplicity."

Daniel Scavuzzo, Astilleros Gondan, Commercial Manager, said: "The Rolls-Royce Unified Bridge is a breakthrough development which fits with the philosophy of Gondan Shipyard. Our aim is to identify and understand our customer's needs to supply integral solutions and services to meet their requirements. Providing the 'shipbuilder's point of view' to this new development has been a very constructive experience for us. Our work hand-in-hand with the designer and the shipowner has been key in delivering this successful project."