Drydocks World has completed a major repair job for a German ship owner on a container vessel extensively damaged by Somali pirates earlier this year. The work, on the 12,600mt dwt 925 teu ship Taipan, was carried out in less than five weeks between 12 April and 15 May. It involved the repair of almost 300 bullet holes and cabling in 80 spots along the 460-ft length by process of fairing and building up, then grinding flush from both sides. Smashed tempered window glass was fully replaced, including 18 full panels in the wheelhouse.
The vessel, which is owned by Komrowski Befrachtungskontor KG (GmbH & Co), was rescued and secured by Dutch naval forces within three hours of its attack and seizure by Somali pirates recently, was also fitted with surrounding anti-piracy razor wire at the instruction of the owner. The repairs were carried out by Drydocks World’s Afloat Repair Unit at Jebel Ali Port in Dubai.