Last June 2015, PIRIOU recorded the order for a Polar Logistic Vessel (PLV) placed by French Ministry for French Southern and Antarctic overseas territories (TAAF). The PLV is designed to operate in an austral and arctic environment, in the rough seas of the Indian Ocean. She will replace two vessels (the Astrolabe and the Albatros) reaching their end.

The PLV is a 72 m long logistic and patrol vessel with ICE BREAKER 5 classification. She will be able to accommodate up to 60 persons and carry 1,200 tons.

With high autonomy for fuel oil and supplies, the vessel will be able to operate for 35 days at 12 knots with 60 persons on board.

A helideck, a 35 tons crane and an aft gantry will provide the PLV multipurpose capacities including the ability to undertake occasional scientific operations.

Delivery will occur in the summer of 2017. The PLV will then be able to carry out her first logistic campaign in the 2017/2018 austral summer’.