Russian Rescue

In 2005, Equipment and Personnel from James Fisher Defence were flown to the Kamchatka Peninsula off the east coast of Russia to rescue seven Submariners from the stricken AS-28 Priz.

Designed to be rapidly deployed, the Scorpio Remotely Operated Vehicle was packaged and flown to Kamchatka on-board a Royal Air Force C17 from Prestwick Airport.

Upon landing in Kamchatka, JFD and ground crews from Russia and the United States Air Force began the transfer of Scorpio onto a lorry bound for the coast.

Engineering

Following selection of a suitable Vessel of Opportunity (VOO), JFD worked alongside the Russian crews to mobilise the Scorpio assets onto ship before sailing to the known position of the AS-28 Priz.

National Geographic: Submarine Rescue

Onboard the Priz

Above Surface

Above surface, JFD and the Russian crews worked tirelessly to ensure a stable platform from which to operate Scorpio. JFD's teams worked to ensure Scorpio was primed for the operation ahead.

Once in the water Scorpio, piloted by JFD Pilot Stuart Gold, began her mission of cutting free the nets entangling the Priz, one by one; a process ultimately leading to success and the safe return of the crew.

Following the Event

Following the event, the crew of the AS-28 returned to their families unharmed from their five-day ordeal. Scorpio returned to the UK where she continued her role supporting the UKSRS. President Putin awarded JFD, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel with the Russian Order for Maritime Acheivement.

http://www.number10.gov.uk/Page8260

Follow Press Stories from the time:

• BBC News (6 Aug 05)
• BBC News (7 Aug 05)
• Times Online (9 Aug 05)
• Guardian (5 Oct 05)