The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) has awarded a contract for the provision of Ocean Bottom Seismometers with an estimatedvalue of  £540,000 (inc VAT).

One of the world’s top oceanographic institutions, the NOC provides the UK’s National Capability needed to be a top global player, to lead and participate in international cooperations.

The NOC was looking to procure the supply and delivery of a pool of broadband OBS systems for deep ocean research, together with one complete deck communications and seabed ranging system, plus commissioning support, documentation and warranties. The systems were intended to underpin geohazard monitoring, seismic and acoustic studies, and wider marine science.

Delivery has been scheduled for completion by 31 March 2026 to enable mobilisation for Spring 2026 expeditions. The OBS pool is to be deployed worldwide, including depths of at least 6,000 m, across a broad temperature range. Instruments are required to support longduration deployments and operate reliably on varied seabed conditions, including slopes, for both passive and active seismic studies. All equipment including OBS units, deck communications system, consumables and documentation was to be delivered no later than 31 March 2026 to enable pre-cruise testing, training and mobilisation for the Spring 2026 expedition window.

The supplier is also required to deliver complete and current manuals covering equipment details, assembly, deployment, recovery, data workflows and safety considerations, and to provide commissioning support to bring the pool into service.

As a minimum, the supplier is required to warrant electronic and datalogger components and sensors and mechanical elements for at least 12 months and include any manufacturer-advised servicing or calibrations for the seismometer within the first five years of ownership.

To protect the investment and maintain scientific integrity over time, the supplier has also been required to provide future compatible firmware, software and data processing updates as part of the contract.

Reading-based firm guralp Systems Ltd has been awarded the contract, one of two suppliers who bid for the work.

Following the ending of the standstill period on 20 October 2025, earliest date the contract will be signed is 24 October 2025.

Current estimated start and end contract dates are 24 October 2025 to 31 March 2027 with a further possible extension option to 30 March 2031.