Development and Delivery of Launch and Retrieval Systems (LARS)

The Dutch and Belgian minehunters were equipped with new sonar equipment, including an entirely new Self Propelled Variable Depth Sonar (SPVDS). As these minehunters are of the same type (the Alkmaar and Bloem classes), the programme was jointly commissioned to the consortium of Atlas Elektronik in Germany and Thales in France. 

For the new Launch and Retrieval System (LARS), Iv developed, designed and calculated a new Pay-Load Handling (PLH) system for the head of the existing crane and provided the required hydraulic winch. 

In addition, Iv carried out the project management during the design, manufacturing and acceptance phases and manufactured and delivered a total of nine complete systems and six partial deliveries to the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Belgian Navy. 

Searching for and neutralising mines at sea is a hazardous activity, for which remotely operated equipment such as the SPVDS is now available. The Navy wanted to launch the costly submersible in a safe and simple manner, without using personnel at water level for connecting and disconnecting operations. 

The PLH ensures that the submersible can be hoisted firmly against the crane to prevent excessive movement. The hydraulic winch enables the lifting cable to be connected remotely. 

Using the PLH and the hydraulic winch, the SPVDS can be launched and recovered directly from the deck, without requiring a boat alongside the SPVDS for connection and disconnection operations. 

Iv not only developed the LARS together with the client and carried out the detailed design, drawings and calculations, but also manufactured and extensively tested the system against the requirements the client places on its equipment, ensuring that it can withstand environmental and weather conditions worldwide.