Five STRATUS Tanks Lined Up Ready for Action
This line up in the workshop at Ayles Fernie Birkenhead is a rare sight!
The award-winning underslung helicopter dispersant spray system was first designed for the Norwegian Coastal Administration. They needed a more cost-effective and efficient way to tackle potential oil spills along Norway’s extensive coastline, much of which is within the Arctic Circle. The STRATUS 2000, which was built with insulation against the harsh climate, was born.
Since then, we’ve developed the design further and created a range of options that are being sold to clients around the world. The latest batch of four STRATUS 1000s (STRATI?!) was recently shipped off to Asia, ready to be deployed in the event of an offshore oil spill. And a further tank was proudly displayed on our stand at Interspill 2025 before being sent to its new owner in Africa.
The STRATUS was a great talking point at the show, which took place at the Excel London, and we received several enquiries. Sadly, it doesn’t come with the multi-coloured flashing LEDs around the engine we placed for display purposes – perhaps an addition for a future model? 😉
Why Helicopters Are Essential in Modern Oil Spill Response
When an oil spill strikes, speed and precision are everything. Helicopter-deployed dispersant systems offer a crucial advantage, especially in complex or sensitive environments. Unlike fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters can hover low and slow for precise targeting, reach remote or congested areas with ease, and deploy quickly from ships or offshore platforms. Their low-altitude operation reduces chemical drift and waste, while real-time visual control ensures accurate dispersant application. Though fixed-wing aircraft excel in large-scale offshore spills, helicopters are the superior choice when flexibility, rapid response, and accuracy are paramount.
STRATUS Helicopter Underslung Dispersant Spray System from Ayles Fernie, a division of the Darcy Group
STRATUS comes in a choice of tank capacities, with and without insulation, and with a range of options to build your bespoke solution.
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