Canadian Navy Anti-mine ROV Refit
The Canadian Navy’s Mine-Countermeasures (MCM) Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) is ready to be returned to the customer after its recent refit by International Submarine Engineering Ltd.
TrailBlazer, a 25 HP vehicle has been in operation with the Canadian Navy since 1995. TrailBlazer 25 is within a non-expendible family of ISE MCM ROVs that are capable of detecting long or short tethered mines as well as bottom mines. TrailBlazer is the only MCM ROV capable of breakouts, utilizing the streamlined ROV at high speed. TrailBlazer is also equipped with a mini five-function manipulator and a cable cutting tool, well suited for its compact frame.
According to ISE, its relationship between Canada’s naval staff is a long one, enabling quick turnaround time when the vehicle is in for a refit. Transferring the technical system knowledge for a vehicle like TrailBlazer is something ISE staff does regularly.
The configuration of this quick performing ROV is streamlined, which makes transporting and facilitating its component also a quick and easy procedure. TrailBlazer 25, its winch, control systems and all peripheral equipment fits into one standard 20ft container for ease and speed of transport.
For ISE Project Manager Andrew Ronan, TrailBlazer 25 is his first refit of a vehicle. “Working on a legacy system like Trailblazer was an eye opening experience. It may not have all the features of a modern system, but I was amazed at how capable this system still is. Even at twenty years old, Trailblazer puts newer systems to shame on the mine range.”
ISE said TrailBlazer 25 MCM ROV has proven its usefulness and continues to be a critical component in the CN’s list of MCM equipment. The system provides a fully functional, transportable option for the Canada’s Navy, ready for service when required.