'World's most powerful' subsea trencher undergoing final preparations

The NKT T3600, described as the world’s most powerful subsea trencher, has arrived at the UK’s Port of Blyth for final fit-out and commissioning. Designed and built by UK-based Osbit, this massive machine is capable of burying high-voltage power cables up to 5.5 meters (18 feet) below the seabed, utilizing both jetting and cutting functions to operate effectively in various soil conditions. The trencher delivers 3,600 horsepower and is intended to support the growing demand for renewable energy infrastructure by protecting critical offshore power cable networks. NKT announced the investment in the T3600 in June 2025 and shortly thereafter entered a four-year agreement with Helix Robotics Solutions Group for the trencher’s installation, offshore operations, maintenance, and project engineering. Helix will also deploy the trencher using its own support vessel. Scheduled to be commercially operational by 2027, the T3600 aims to enhance cable protection amid increasing risks such