Salvage of KNM Helge Ingstad: A Remarkable Operation by BOA
On November 8th, 2018, the Norwegian frigate HNoMS Helge Ingstad collided with a tanker on the west coast of Norway, causing substantial damage to the starboard side of the warship. The frigate subsequently grounded and was secured to land with steel wires, remaining partially submerged.
BOA was appointed as the main contractor for the salvage operation, tasked with developing and executing a comprehensive plan to recover the frigate. The salvage operation was meticulously planned and executed in four main steps:
- Securing HNoMS Helge Ingstad to Shore: To prevent further sinking, the frigate was secured to the shore using steel wires.
- Fuel Removal and Preparation for Lifting: The next step involved removing the fuel onboard and preparing the frigate for lifting by placing and securing lifting chains around the hull.
- Lifting, Dewatering, and Loading onto BOABARGE 33: After complex preparations, HNoMS Helge Ingstad was successfully lifted off the bottom on February 26th, up-righted to zero trim and zero list, dewatered, and loaded onto BOABARGE 33.
- Transport and Redelivery to the Owner: Due to unfavorable weather conditions, it was decided to transfer HNoMS Helge Ingstad to a sheltered location for the remaining operations. With the frigate hanging in the cranes, the heavy lift vessel (HLV) transited to a sheltered location where the submerging of BOABARGE 33 and the subsequent loading of HNoMS Helge Ingstad could be carried out safely. After successful loading, the barge was towed to Haakonsvern, where the frigate was temporarily patched before the float-off operation was carried out.
This salvage operation stands as a testament to BOA’s expertise and commitment to safety and environmental protection. The successful recovery and transport of HNoMS Helge Ingstad highlight BOA’s capability to handle complex maritime salvage operations with precision and care.
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