Vard has held keel-laying and coin ceremonies for NB 998, a commissioning service operation vessel (CSOV) being built for Taiwan-based Dong Fang Offshore (DFO) at its Vard Vung Tau shipyard in Vietnam.
The vessel is based on Vard’s 4 39 design, developed in collaboration with DFO, and is designed to support offshore wind farm operations as well as construction and installation activities. Delivery is scheduled for the first quarter of 2028.
NB 998 is the third SOV in DFO’s order series with Vard. The company ordered its first two Vard 4 39 vessels in May 2024. The first, Orient Inspirer (NB 987), was delivered in September 2026.
The second SOV, Orient Innovator (NB 989), is under construction, which began at Vard Vung Tau in September 2025.
Vard announced the contract for the third vessel of this design in May 2025, following DFO’s exercise of an option included in the agreement for an offshore subsea construction vessel signed the previous month. DFO’s offshore subsea construction vessel from Vard, NB 988, is scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of 2027.
Upon delivery, the new CSOV is scheduled to begin a minimum 15-year service contract for an undisclosed offshore wind farm customer in Taiwan.
The approximately 102.7-metre-long vessel will have a beam of 19.5 metres and accommodation for up to 120 people, including 90 in single cabins. Its equipment will include a fully electric crane and a walk-to-work gangway system. The design also incorporates a battery package for hybrid propulsion and provisions for future fuel options.