Island Frontier

Island Frontier was built at Søviknes Verft (Build number 137) in 2003. In 2024 we replaced the outdated automation system from UMAS and ABB with our IAS.

Vessel Information

Retrofitted: 2024
Owner: Island Offshore
Segment: Offshore Construction Vessel
Yard: Søviknes Verft


Island Frontier, constructed at Søviknes Verft with Build number 137 in 2003, originally featured four independent systems:

  • UMAS Alarm & Monitoring System
  • UMAS Cargo Control System
  • ABB Power Management System
  • ABB Safety System


In 2023, Høglund secured the retrofitting order for the outdated UMAS and ABB systems, replacing them with the Høglund Integrated Automation System (IAS). The meticulous preparation of software and drawings was carried out by our dedicated Project Engineer team.

The installation took place in Gibraltar during January and February 2024, with Høglund's partner Acel overseeing the onboard installation. This involved replacing the old UMAS components with new Høglund hardware. A commissioning engineer from Høglund was present on-site, ensuring the software and the ongoing installation met the intended functionality.

Responding to Island Offshore's request, we extended our scope beyond IAS and PMS solutions, introducing a new Fire and Gas Alarm system and Emergency Shut Down System. The decision to replace the unreliable ESD system was crucial, given the high operational risks associated with potential vessel blackouts during operations. Høglund designed a new ESD system and Fire and Gas system, building on existing inputs and outputs from the old ABB400 ADVANT system. Implementing line monitoring through I/O cards addressed concerns about maintaining self-diagnostic capabilities and ensuring the shutdown systems' optimal condition.

Høglund also developed a new cargo pumps control module to manage hydraulic cargo and FW pumps. As the original dedicated controller from Mitsubishi lacked accessible software, our team built new functionality based on information provided by the crew and vessel manager, along with the available signals.

Interface enhancements to the IAS included:

  • A/C control system, not available in the old UMAS system, enabling control from IAS.
  • BWTS interface (control/information) via Profibus to IAS.
  • Reverse osmosis integration.
  • Implementation of new thruster load control in the new PMS.
  • Introduction of automatic MODE change functionality in PMS, featuring Harbor Mode, DP Mode, and Sailing mode, each setting up the number of DGs on the main SWB, Main SWB configuration, and load demand.

ESD cabinet before retrofit

ESD cabinet after retrofit

Old Fire & Gas system

New Fire & Gas system

IAS before retrofit

IAS after retrofit