Last Update: September 22, 2006

Global Class Science Mission Requirements (SMRs)

Project to Update the Global Class SMRs

A UNOLS Global Class SMR Steering Committee has been formed with the purpose of updating the Science Mission Requirements (SMRs) for Global Class vessels. Community input to this effort is essential to ensure that the academic Global Class ships will have the capabilities to meet future research needs. Information about the project is contained on this web site. We encourage the community to stay engaged and provide input.

Please Complete the Community Input Survey Form

Background:

Over the past couple of years, UNOLS has drafted Science Mission Requirements (SMRs) for two new classes of vessels that were outlined in the Federal Oceanographic Facilities Committee (FOFC) report, A long-Range Plan for Renewal.  These SMRs were for Regional Class and Ocean Class vessels.  The final documents are posted on the UNOLS website at <http://www.unols.org/committees/fic/smr/index.html>.

In the next five to ten years, several of the present Global Class ships will reach the age where mid-life refits normally occur.  The SMRs for this class of vessels were originally drafted in 1989.  Since that time, there have been several advances in oceanographic research as well as technology developments that affect the desired capabilities for these vessels.  One example is meeting the needs of the future ocean observatory programs.  Additionally, SMRs will need to address regulatory constraints that have been implemented in recent years.  Thus, the UNOLS Fleet Improvement Committee (FIC) believes it is time to update the Global Class SMRs.  The FIC has recommended that the model used to develop the Regional and Ocean Classes SMRs be followed for the Global SMR effort.  Additionally, the Ocean Class SMR document should be used as a template in drafting the Global SMRs. 

The first Global ship slated for a mid-life refit is the Thomas Thompson in 2006.  We would like to be able to make the updates SMRs available in time to plan for the ship’s refit.

The SMRs should be general-purpose requirements applicable for all Global Class ships.  Any additions or modifications required for specialized Global Class vessels (e.g., the seismic vessel, HOV support vessel or heavy-lift capable vessel) should be placed in appendices of the report.

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Draft Task Statement

Global Committee Meetings (Agendas, Minutes, Presentations):

Reference Material: