NOAA is having its research vessel “Oscar Dyson” extensively modernized. The work at JAG Alaska also includes a new Siemens propulsion system, which should significantly increase the ship’s efficiency and sustainability.
The US research vessel “Oscar Dyson” was put into service around 20 years ago. It is now undergoing a major overhaul. As part of this, the ship is being fitted with a new propulsion system.
The ship is operated by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It has awarded the contract for a comprehensive modernization worth 95 million US dollars to JAG Alaska, a shipyard based in Alaska.
The project will not only strengthen NOAA’s operational readiness, but also boost Alaska’s economy by creating skilled jobs.
The JAG Alaska shipyard said it is proud to have been awarded the contract for the Oscar Dyson Mid-Life Extension Program (MEP) and looks forward to performing extensive modernization and maintenance to maximize the life of the vessel.
“We greatly appreciate the effort to bring a project of this magnitude and importance to the state of Alaska and look forward to working with NOAA and our partner Siemens Energy, the exclusive provider of the new propulsion plant for the Oscar Dyson MEP,” said Charles Minton, Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of JAG Marine Group.
Advanced propulsion technology
A key element of the modernization is the installation of the Siship BlueDrive PlusC propulsion system from Siemens Energy. This is a low-voltage direct current (LVDC) system designed to significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions. According to Siemens Energy, the system minimizes specific fuel consumption (g/kWh) during operation and thus supports NOAA’s sustainability goals. At the same time, it sets a new benchmark for energy-efficient research vessels.
Rear Admiral (ret.) Bryant Fuller, Head of Federal Maritime Programs at Siemens Energy, emphasized the company’s long-standing partnership with NOAA: “Retrofitting the ‘Oscar Dyson’ with our BlueDrive-PlusC propulsion system is a testament to our shared commitment to sustainability, innovation and operational excellence in the maritime sector.”
“Oscar Dyson” – in service since 2005
Launched in 2005, the “Oscar Dyson” plays a central role in fisheries surveys and ecosystem analysis in Alaskan waters. Upcoming upgrades include new Tier 4 variable speed generators, low-noise air conditioning engines, improved fire detection systems, new pumps, fans, cranes and radar systems, and additional single cabins. All of this is designed to improve operational efficiency, scientific capabilities and crew comfort.
To ensure uninterrupted data collection during the one-year maintenance of the “Oscar Dyson”, NOAA is refitting the research vessel “Bell M. Shimada” for use in colder climates. This proactive approach ensures continuous data collection for Alaska’s important fisheries studies.
Ready for use again in 2028
According to Siemens Energy, NOAA’s investment in the “Oscar Dyson” is more than a modernization – it is a model for the future of sustainable maritime science. By combining local shipbuilding expertise with global propulsion technology, NOAA is strengthening its leadership role in marine research and demonstrating what successful collaboration between government, industry and regional business can look like. The modernization work is scheduled to be completed in 2028, so that the “Oscar Dyson” will be ready for use again in time for the research season.
