• Asia Pacific Rentals & Services
  • 11/04/2025

ROV Control System Replacement and Life Extension

Centurion refurbished a long-idle Work Class ROV and Tether Management System (TMS) for a Thailand-based subsea services provider, delivering a cost-effective alternative to new equipment by integrating its proven Gladiator Control System. The fully upgraded system is now operational in the field, avoiding millions in capital costs and long lead times, while delivering a reliable, future-ready system.


The Client
A Thailand based provider of subsea services to the oil and gas industry in Southeast Asia.

Client Requirements and Challenges
While our UK Subsea team was already refurbishing a Work Class ROV (WROV) and Tether Management System (TMS), the client approached us in search of a reliable, cost-effective alternative to purchasing new equipment. Our existing system had been in long-term storage, with missing and outdated components—many of which had been removed to support other assets. Replacing the system with a new one wasn’t feasible for the client due to the AUD $8–12 million price tag and lead times exceeding 12 months. The client needed a technically sound solution that could be delivered quickly—without the heavy capital expenditure.

Our Solution
Centurion Subsea carried out a complete refurbishment of the WROV, centred on the integration of our Gladiator Control System – a proven solution used across our fleet of Multi, AUX and Track ROVs.

Our scope included:

  • Installation of Gladiator PODs across the ROV, TMS and full topside control system
  • Replacement of all sensors and navigation systems
  • Retention and upgrade of original valve packs with CSS PCBs
  • Supply of a new Atlas manipulator with proportional control
  • Full TMS hydraulic system upgrade with intelligent valve pack
  • Supply of new control van, power van and workshop containers
  • Refurbishment and repainting of the ROV buoyancy and TMS frame

Our software and engineering teams also implemented enhanced diagnostic tools, remote support capabilities, and provided spare kits to support field operations.

The Results
The refurbished system is now fully operational and performing reliably in the field. The client avoided major capital expenditure while gaining a modern, supported, and future-ready subsea solution.

Conclusion
This project is a great example of how innovative engineering, proven technology, and the right team can bring older subsea equipment back to life. By refurbishing rather than replacing, the client avoided a major capital expense and long wait times—without compromising on performance or reliability.

Contact Information
For more information, contact the team in Perth, Western Australia at CSSAU@centurionaprs.com, +61 (0) 892 584 949 or in Singapore: CSSSG@centurionaprs.com or+65 6863 4470.

Have a look at our other case studies.