Robert Allan Ltd. is pleased to announce the signing of a contract during the recent International Workboat Show in New Orleans, USA. Robert Allan Ltd. and Uzmar Shipyard signed documents commencing a new high performance escort tug project that is an example of the continuing strong co-operation existing between the two companies. Uzmar has now built over 90 Robert Allan Ltd. designed tugs and workboats since the first project in 1996, ranging in size from 15 m aluminium catamarans, to 36 m escort tugs, to 46 m shallow draft pushboats. This contract covers a new RAstar 3000-W design setup to accommodate propulsion packages of up to 90 tonnes of bollard pull while still staying under 500 GT. These modern escort tugs will have the following key particulars and be capable of safely performing steering and braking manoeuvres in exposed conditions: Length, overall: 30.00 m; Beam, moulded: 13.20 m; Depth, least moulded: 5.50 m; Maximum draft (overall): 5.70 m; Complement: 10 persons in MLC 2006 compliant accommodations; Fuel oil: 140 m3; Fresh water: 30 m3; The high quality vessels will begin construction in Turkey in early 2017 and be available for delivery to international clients in 2018. Jim Hyslop, Robert Allan Ltd.’s Manager, Project Development, said, “I am delighted to witness the signing of this design contract with Uzmar that will spur the building of new market leading tugs allowing owners to quickly respond to today’s demanding tender requirements.” (TUGS TOWING & OFFSHORE)