DLM Stingray Enables Precise Grapnel Tracking
Thursday, 30th October 2025
Dynamic Load Monitoring (UK) Ltd. (DLM) has supplied its innovative Stingray acoustic positioning system to Leask Marine Ltd., enabling the accurate tracking of a grapnel train within a narrow corridor at a North Sea wind farm.
The Stingray system provided Leask Marine with real-time visibility of the grapnel train’s position during pre-lay grapnel run (PLGR) operations, ensuring it remained within the designated route across an 80km subsea corridor ahead of the installation of two export cables.
Precision Tracking for Safer, More Efficient Cable Operations
DLM designs, manufactures, and calibrates advanced load monitoring and subsea cable handling equipment for the wind energy, renewables, and telecommunications sectors. Its growing range of grapnels is widely used by subsea cable installation companies for route clearance and recovery of lightweight fibre-optic or heavy-duty armoured cables.
In this project, Leask Marine required a solution to maintain complete positional awareness of its grapnel train. While grapnels are typically assumed to follow a vessel’s path, the length of the tow line and train can cause deviation, risking encroachment into restricted areas.
How the Stingray Works
Though not a grapnel itself, the Stingray is designed around DLM’s wheeled detrenching grapnel and integrates seamlessly into the grapnel train.
Positioned at the rear, it uses acoustic signals to transmit its exact location to the towing vessel in real time — providing operators with precise tracking data throughout subsea operations.
Eliminating Risk and Reducing Costly Re-Runs
“Without clear visibility of the grapnel train’s position, PLGR operators can’t react quickly if it strays from the route,” said Martin Halford, Managing Director at DLM. “That can lead to compliance issues, environmental risks, or costly re-runs. The Stingray removes this uncertainty, helping ensure projects stay on time and within budget.”
By providing live route confirmation, the Stingray allowed Leask Marine to take immediate corrective action when needed — avoiding potential delays and ensuring full compliance with operational and environmental requirements.
Proven Reliability Offshore
John F. Macleod, Commercial Director at Leask Marine, added: “We approached DLM looking for a way to track our grapnel train, and they responded quickly — even fast-tracking the Stingray’s manufacture to meet our project timeline. The system gave us complete confidence that our equipment was exactly where it needed to be, protecting both our assets and nearby infrastructure.”
In addition to enhancing accuracy, the Stingray helped prevent equipment damage, minimise environmental impact, and meet regulatory standards — reinforcing DLM’s position as a trusted technology partner in offshore cable operations.
About Dynamic Load Monitoring (UK) Ltd.
Dynamic Load Monitoring (UK) Ltd. provides load cells, load monitoring, and cable-handling solutions for offshore, renewable energy, and subsea applications. Based in Southampton, DLM offers design, manufacture, repair, and calibration services to clients worldwide.
