Megamas Resources Commissions Ulstein to Design High-Capacity Fiber Optic Cable-Laying Vessel

Malaysia’s Megamas Resources has officially signed a ship design contract with Norway’s Ulstein Design & Solutions for a next-generation fiber-optic cable-laying vessel (CLV), which will be constructed by German shipbuilder Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven. The newbuild will feature the ULSTEIN SX228 design, a robust configuration tailored to meet the growing demands of subsea cable deployment.

With a deadweight of 8,200 tons and a cable load capacity of 5,500 tons, the vessel will incorporate an underdeck carousel directly integrated into its cable tanks—optimizing space and improving handling efficiency. Measuring 121.7 meters in length and 23 meters in width, the CLV is engineered for fiber-optic cable installation and will also be prepared to support future power cable operations.

Cable-laying vessels like this play a crucial role in global telecommunications and offshore energy infrastructure. These ships must carry and deploy various types of subsea cables—including fiber-optic and high-voltage power cables—under challenging sea conditions. Such operations demand highly specialized cable systems, including tensioners, linear cable engines, and precise control software. The selection and integration of marine cables—especially those with high tensile strength, anti-corrosion sheathing, and excellent bending performance—are critical to maintaining reliable connectivity and power transmission in offshore environments.

Concept development for the vessel began in late 2023. This newly signed contract enables the project to progress into the engineering phase. “This agreement is a major step forward following the Letter of Intent signed in May between Megamas and Lloyd Werft,” said Capt. Tiew Sien Kheng, Managing Partner at Megamas Resources. “It marks the transition from planning to execution for a highly capable, multi-functional cable-laying platform.”

The project is being developed in collaboration with Crewstone International Private Equity & Investments and aims to address the worldwide shortage of offshore vessels specialized in cable-laying. These ships are vital to supporting the fast-growing renewable energy sector and the expansion of global subsea communication networks.

The vessel will be outfitted with two firing lines, a fully enclosed working deck for cable management systems, and a dedicated ROV hangar to support subsea trenching operations. Additional features include a 50-ton A-frame and a bollard pull capability of up to 120 tons, enabling it to handle demanding subsea ploughing tasks.

Built to meet DNV’s Clean (Design) and Recyclable class standards, the ship reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility and lifecycle sustainability. Delivery is scheduled for the end of 2027.

Megamas and Lloyd Werft also hold an option to build a second vessel under the same design specifications.

About Feichun Cable:
Feichun Cable specializes in high-performance marine and offshore cable solutions tailored for demanding applications such as cable-laying vessels, port operations, and subsea infrastructure. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and industry compliance, Feichun’s cable systems offer superior durability, flexibility, and resistance to harsh marine environments—ensuring reliable performance in mission-critical operations across the globe.