Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • Base Materials boosts subsea buoyancy options

Defence Security

Base Materials boosts subsea buoyancy options

Leicester headquartered Base Materials has launched a new buoyancy repair and refurbishment service providing remotely operated vehicle (ROV) owners and operators with a more sustainable alternative to purchasing new buoyancy modules.



Image courtesy Base Materials

Designed to extend the service life and optimise the return on investment of old, damaged and worn buoyancy modules, while reducing waste to landfill, the new service will be provided from Base Materials’ 10,000 square feet state-of-the-art production facility in Birmingham, UK.

Advertisement
ODU RT

The service comprises a full inspection of the buoyancy module to review the material core, damage, breakage or corrosion of metallic inserts, weight in air and weight in water calibrated testing, and a dimensional laser scan. Base Materials can provide a range of services to ensure the modules meet original specifications and operational industry-recognised standards. These include the repair of any scuffs, cracks, splits and chips and the replacement of missing sections or damaged inserts, in addition to the painting and recoating of a protective skin to improve module longevity for abrasion and impact resistance.

Speaking about the launch of the new service, John Miller, Managing Director of Base Materials, said: “The need to maximise service life is as critical across the subsea buoyancy sector, as it is any other and this also presents the opportunity to support our customers’ environmental objectives.  

Advertisement
ODU RT

“For many ROV owners and operators, purchasing a new set of buoyancy modules for an existing vehicle needn’t be the only option. Which is why we’re delighted to provide an alternative solution that enables them to give their existing modules a second life and reduce waste to landfill.”

Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner
Babcock reviews future vehicle platforms with UK SMEs at Defence Battlelab

Defence Events

Babcock reviews future vehicle platforms with UK SMEs at Defence Battlelab

24 April 2026

Babcock International Group has brought together key suppliers for an engagement day at the Defence Battlelab in Dorset, to look at upcoming requirements for a new generation of modern off road vehicles.

UKEF partners with Finance for Forces to support veteran-led exporters

Aerospace Defence Security Space

UKEF partners with Finance for Forces to support veteran-led exporters

24 April 2026

UK Export Finance (UKEF) – the government’s export credit agency – has announced a new partnership with Finance for Forces to help more veteran-led businesses access the finance they need to grow internationally.

Royal Navy evaluates next-gen maritime capabilities

Defence

Royal Navy evaluates next-gen maritime capabilities

24 April 2026

Earlier this year, demonstrations to the Royal Navy were successfully conducted at SubSea Craft’s UK headquarters as part of Atlantic Bastion, a programme to make Britain more secure from threats in the North Atlantic.

Government scouts private investment to advance defence innovation

Defence

Government scouts private investment to advance defence innovation

24 April 2026

This week the UK Defence Secretary John Healey and Chancellor Rachel Reeves met with leaders from UK banking, venture capital and strategic finance, to explore how private investment can be leveraged to drive innovation and accelerate defence readiness.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Thales expands Malaysian Armed Forces

Defence Events

Thales expands Malaysian Armed Forces' tactical comms

24 April 2026

In partnership with Advanced Defence Systems (ADS), Thales Malaysia is establishing a local assembly line for new-generation SYNAPS (V/UHF) Software-Defined Radios in Segamat, Johor, strengthening Thales’ local manufacturing capabilities.

UK and Indonesia launch flagship Maritime Partnership Programme

Defence

UK and Indonesia launch flagship Maritime Partnership Programme

24 April 2026

Babcock International Group, together with the British Embassy Jakarta, British Chamber of Commerce and Indonesian partners, have formally launched the Maritime Partnership Programme (MPP), a flagship agreement to deepen UK–Indonesia cooperation across maritime defence, fisheries, industrial capability and skills development.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner