The project ‘Reconstruction and Modernisation of the Research Boat (R) Philia’, is a synergy between the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (ELKETHE) and the Naval Engineering School of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA). The Hellenic Centre for Marine Research bases on the research vessel FILIA a large part of its marine activities, including fisheries and coastal research for major international research programmes for environmental and fisheries monitoring. The FILIA FILIA is a 26-metre research vessel built in 1986, which urgently needs reconstruction in order to remain operational and expand its research activities. The reconstruction will keep this important infrastructure operational, which supports fishing and coastal research in the country. Throughout the previous period, constant efforts have been made to modernise the vessel to meet the ever-increasing demands of modern marine and fisheries research. By reconstructing and modernising the vessel will overcome all the restrictions that exist to be fully usable in modern research requirements. The renovation and modernisation of the vessel shall include: Reconstruction of the bridge, dismantling and restoration of accommodation and workshops, construction and installation of a hydraulic suspension system and reclining aft paddle, replacement of the existing HIAB crane, purchase and installation of vacuum and biological sewerage system, tubular work, replacement of electrical wiring and panels, replacement of a power generator. In addition, the ship’s equipment will be modernised to meet modern technological, scientific and research requirements. In particular, they will take place: Modernisation of maritime instruments by purchasing and installing an electronic control system of the main engine, a cable management system in hydraulic vids, gyropelus, autopilot, magnetic compass, depth gauge, replacement of existing radar, replacement and upgrading of maritime software, purchase and installation of equipment for satellite Internet, and purchase of modern scientific instruments such as polyconic fish detection systems and geological surveys, as well as systems to obtain environmental measurements. In addition, they will take place: 1. The promotion of the possibilities offered by the use of the vessel for research, as well as for the provision of other services to public and private bodies, from Regions, cooperatives, research centres abroad, as well as for educational purposes. In this context, the upgraded capabilities that the boat will provide after the completion of the project will be highlighted with emphasis. 2. Free use of the research vessel by other Institutes, fisheries cooperatives, companies for at least 50 days in the context of this project, with an open call for expressions of interest for research educational or other use. 3. Synergy programs that include training of scientific and naval personnel in the new capabilities of the vessel, hydrodynamic studies for use in shipbuilding technology, as well as the exploitation of Infrastructure in collaboration with the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) in the development of a Management Plan for the Avoidance of Landing in areas of the Greek seas, aiming at preventing accidents.
