The SimFer joint venture has announced the successful launch of its first Transshipment Shuttle Vessel (TSV), specially designed to transfer shallow-water iron ore from the dock to ocean-going vessels. The launch took place at the Chengxi Shipyard.
SimFer, the joint venture between the Government of the Republic of Guinea, Rio Tinto, and Chalco Iron Ore Holding (CIOH), has ordered a fleet of five vessels with a cargo capacity of 41,800 tonnes (DWT). This fleet will ensure continuous export operations through uninterrupted shuttle capability.
The launch ceremony, held on 30 December in Yangzhou, brought together senior representatives from SimFer, CIOH, CSL, CSSC Chengxi, and other strategic partners.
SimFer’s Managing Director, Chris Aitchison, stated: “This launch marked a major milestone for the Simandou project. By integrating state-of-the-art transshipment technologies, we are setting new standards for safety, efficiency, and logistical reliability for the mining industry in Guinea.”
The company commended the exceptional efforts of the Chengxi shipyard in Yangzhou and its partners, who successfully met the technical challenges and delivered the innovative vessel on schedule.
This achievement also demonstrated the close collaboration with partners in both Guinea and China, which characterised the entire project and continues to support Simandou’s operational excellence.
The vessel’s launch marked the completion of the hull structure on the shipyard’s slipway. Now afloat, the vessel will be transferred to a port for outfitting and commissioning.
Main features:
- Load capacity of 41,800 tonnes. Optimised hull with reduced draught.
- Self-unloading system with double articulated beam, designed to unload at rates of up to 12,000 tonnes per hour.
- Five azimuth thrusters, offering increased manoeuvrability and high control precision at low speeds.
- Bidirectional navigation capability, ensuring strong operational flexibility.
