The submarine rescue vessel URF is now back on standby after extensive modification and maintenance work. FMV has handed over the craft to the Swedish Armed Forces after implemented measures that extend the life of the URF to 2035.
“During the “URF 24/25″ project, URF has undergone several modifications and upgrades with the aim of extending the life of the spacecraft to at least 2035. The submarine rescue vessel represents an important and unique capability for collective rescue, both in Sweden and internationally. We now have an even better URF that is once again on standby,” says Martin Jegnell, Product Manager, FMV.
Since 2024, URF has undergone extensive work where the craft was largely dismantled for painting and overhaul of the pressure hull. Within the framework of the project, the equivalent of 72 months of planned maintenance was taken care of at the same time, while several central systems were upgraded. Among other things, control systems, E-pods, sonars, camera systems and HMI (human machine interface) in the pilot room have been modernized.
The project has had the goal of both ensuring the continued function of the vessel and upgrading an important national capability. URF is an essential part of Sweden’s submarine rescue system and is crucial for being able to carry out collective rescue of a submarine crew in distress.
In addition to its national role, the URF is also an important resource for international submarine rescue preparedness. The vessel thus contributes to both Swedish and international submarine safety and is part of the overall work to maintain and develop submarine rescue capability.
After completed modifications and upgrades, the URF is now operational again and on standby with the Armed Forces.