NMDC and Royal IHC have successfully launched TSHD GHASHA

National Marine Dredging Company (NMDC) and Royal IHC (IHC) have successfully launched trailing suction hopper dredger (TSHD) GHASHA. The ceremony took place at IHC’s shipyard in Kinderdijk, The Netherlands. The GHASHA is based on the success of the 6,000m³ TSHD ARZANA, which was also delivered by IHC in 2018.

The new TSHD has a number of innovations, including an enlarged hopper capacity of 8,000m³ and a larger dredging depth of 45 metres. The technologically advanced design of the GHASHA is a result of the close cooperation between IHC and NMDC. This has led to a tailor-made solution that combines a shallow draft and a large dredging depth, with a high level of manoeuvrability and suitability for operating in challenging environments with high temperatures.

In addition, IHC will deliver the first TSHD simulator to the Middle East. This will allow NMDC to further develop and strengthen its excellent in-house dredging capabilities.

“We are prepared to continue our support to the leadership vision to achieve its ambition to give added value for the International maritime economy, and let the UAE flag to be the most attractive flag for cargo ships,” says NMDC CEO Yasser Nassr Zaghloul.

“Our partnership with NMDC has again proven to be successful and we are pleased to add more value to their advanced fleet,”adds Royal IHC CEO Dave Vander Heyde. “The integrated approach of IHC to vessel design, will enable NMDC to be more competitive on a wider range of projects.”