Russia Studies the Sunken PD-50 Dry Dock with a 3D Model
Russian authorities have initiated a project to analyze the condition of the floating dry dock PD-50, a facility that sank in 2018 during maintenance work on the aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov. A contract has been signed to carry out a complete underwater inspection, with a budget close to 240 million rubles. 🛠️
Objective: a comprehensive 3D technical record
The central purpose of this contract is to generate a highly accurate three-dimensional model of the entire submerged structure. To achieve this, it is necessary to measure the hull completely, record its exact location on the seabed, and examine the topography of the bottom. This digital file will serve as a definitive technical record of the dock's remains.
Mandatory project documentation:- Create a detailed digital 3D model of the sunken hull.
- Measure and map the precise position of the structure on the seabed.
- Analyze and record the characteristics of the surrounding seabed terrain.
The 3D model could be key to deciding whether to recover the dock or leave it as a peculiar artificial reef.
Capturing the underwater reality
In addition to the digital model, the agreement requires graphically documenting the entire facility. This involves obtaining photographs and video recordings in the underwater environment, as well as producing detailed technical plans and diagrams. Although the project is already underway, the identity of the company or consortium that will carry out these inspection works has not been made public. 📸
Elements of the graphic documentation:- Obtain high-resolution underwater photographs of the structure.
- Record video footage showing the dock's condition.
- Prepare precise technical diagrams and drawings based on the collected data.
A future yet to be defined
The information gathered, especially the detailed three-dimensional model, will provide the technical basis for deciding the final fate of the PD-50. The authorities will evaluate whether it is viable and cost-effective to salvage and repair the expensive facility, or whether, on the contrary, to abandon it in place, potentially transforming it into a unique and rugged marine habitat. The investment in this study underscores the importance of having precise data to plan the next step. 🌊