NKT

UK & Offshore

NKT, one of SSEN Transmission’s key strategic suppliers for the delivery of our Pathway to 2030 investment programme, has announced a major investment in new subsea cable protection technology with the development of the NKT T3600, the world’s most powerful subsea trencher.
Image of SSEN Transmission collegues with NKT onsite looking at a workboard and speaking with a colleague

The new trencher strengthens NKT’s end‑to‑end cable installation capabilities, supporting the delivery of critical offshore infrastructure required for the transition to renewable energy. Designed to bury subsea power cables up to 5.5 metres below the seabed, the T3600 provides deeper, more resilient protection in increasingly challenging marine environments. 

In line with NKT’s goal to leave a positive long-term legacy in all areas where it conducts business, this investment will support local employment and contribute to the long-term viability of UK-based contractors. This is demonstrated by the award of a substantial contract to OSBIT Ltd, a UK-based original equipment supplier responsible for designing and constructing the trencher, as well as the Launch & Recovery System.

By engaging local contractors, NKT is helping to reinforce the sustainable supply chain approach shared across SSEN Transmission’s programme of works. 

Darren Fennell, Executive Vice President and Head of HV Solutions at NKT, said:

“Protecting power cables is more important than ever, and this trencher will be best in class - ensuring reliable deep-burial protection of power cables in even the most challenging soil conditions. With this investment, we also support the local economy by engaging UK companies in the design and development of the trencher.” 

The trencher is expected to be commercially operational by 2027. 

For more information, please visit NKT.