Docks-based Marine Towage Services (MTS) is going from strength to strength with all of its tugs currently engaged in towage activities around Europe and the company has a new powerful tug under construction.

The tug, MTS Taktow, which has been used as the third tug in many recent towage operations around the port, will sail for Den Helder, Holland, next week for a major refit.

The ex Smit tug is 23-metres long with a 14-tonne bollard pull (BP) and after her refit she will have an 18 ton BP.

MTS Group boss Jon Parslow says: "MTS Taktow will be fitted with a new propulsion system with state-of-the-art propellers and rudders.

"New kort nozzles are being fitted along with major modifications to the towing winch arrangements and the provision of a new cut-away stern.

MTS Vengeance, a Shoalbuster tug, is currently working in the north of Scotland and the Shetlands. She will then sail for Russia on another contract.

MTS have a new Shaolbuster 2709 tug being built by Damen Shipyard. The hull is under construction in Damen's Kozle yard in Poland.

Readers wishing to follow the progress of the hull, to be named MTS Valiant can visit the Damen website at www.damenkozle.pl click on Newbuildings and YN 1122 to see the tug under construction.

Due for delivery in May 2008, the 40 ton BP tug may be seen in action in Falmouth from time to time.