Norwegian research organisation SINTEF and its partners have developed a lightweight emergency towing system designed to make towing disabled vessels faster and safer, particularly in severe weather conditions. The new system has been developed ahead of stricter emergency towing regulations that will come into force in 2028 for ships of more than 20,000 GT. Unlike conventional emergency towing equipment, which can weigh up to one tonne and must be carried beneath a helicopter, the new system weighs just 75 kg. This allows it to be transported inside a rescue helicopter, extending operational range and enabling deployment in more challenging weather. It can then either be fired across to a towing vessel using an air cannon or delivered with the aid of a surface drone.