Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS)
Reliable Launch and Recovery Systems for Subsea and Diving Operations
Unique Group’s LARS solutions are designed for safe, efficient, and flexible deployment and retrieval of divers, ROVs, and subsea equipment.
Built to perform in harsh marine environments, our systems support operations across offshore energy, defence, and renewables.
Overview
Unique Group offers a comprehensive range of Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS) engineered for commercial diving, ROV, and subsea equipment handling. Our systems ensure safe and controlled deployment and recovery in demanding offshore conditions, supporting operations from shallow coastal tasks to deepwater missions.
Our LARS are used globally for surface-supplied diving, manned basket deployment, ROV launch, and recovery of subsea vehicles. With a strong track record in engineering containerised, modular, or bespoke LARS, we provide dependable solutions that meet both IMCA and class certification standards.
Key Components of Our LARS Solutions
- Diver Launch Frames: Open cage, 2-diver and 3-diver wet bell systems
- ROV Launch A-Frames: Dipping and telescopic designs with enhanced reach
- Hydraulic Winches: For vertical and horizontal deployment with load monitoring
- Umbilical Handling: Integrated sheaves and reel systems for diver or ROV support
- Control Panels & Consoles: Manual or remote operation with safety interlocks
- Containerised or Modular Frames: Designed for ease of mobilization and transport
Technical Strengths
- Capacity Range: Suitable for light-duty to heavy-duty lifting (up to ~15Te SWL)
- Compliance: IMCA D023/D018, DNV-ST-0378, Lloyd’s Register, ABS, BV, RINA
- Operational Depths: Supports surface, mid-water, and deepwater operations
- Deployment Modes: Manual, hydraulic, or remote-controlled activation
- Design Variants: Fixed, containerised, or vessel-mounted LARS configurations
- Safety Features: Load monitoring systems, emergency brakes, fail-safe latch mechanisms
Custom Engineering Scope
Each LARS is engineered to meet client-specific operational and environmental conditions. Key configurable elements include:
- Diver basket or wet bell size and capacity
- ROV type and launch footprint
- Sea state and motion compensation needs
- Vessel integration or skid-mounting options
- Control system integration (manual, radio, touchscreen)
- Electrical and hydraulic power interfaces
Use Case Scenarios
- Mine-countermeasure / UXO. Unique Group offers solutions for mine detection, removal and UXO, including UG Unexploded Ordnance Lifting & Safe Disposal System (UXO LSDS). Related categories: UXO detection and UXO recovery.
- Heave-compensated. Unique Group confirmed heave-compensated equipment and solutions are relevant.
- Remote or automated. Unique Group offers remote and automated solutions.
- Spare parts. Spare parts are available for various Unique Group products, including dive equipment.
- USV. Unique Group offers nearshore USVs (Uni-Mini to Uni-Max, including Uni-Pact) and offshore USVs (OPT WAM-V 22).
- Rental LARS. Unique Group rents LARS for diving applications: UG LR50 A2 2-Diver Open Cage LARS, UG LR50 A2TSS Twin Basket Air LARS, UG LRE 50 A2 Extended Reach LARS.
Deployment & Operation
Our systems are designed for quick mobilisation and intuitive use. Many of our LARS fit within ISO containers or compact deck footprints, allowing for easy transport and integration on vessels of opportunity. For ROV operations, dipping A-frame systems offer extended reach into splash zones, enhancing launch safety and accuracy. Integrated winches and umbilical sheaves ensure smooth handling, while operator panels provide responsive, user-friendly control.
Engineering & Support
- All LARS systems are designed and fabricated in-house
- Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and class approval support
- On-site installation and commissioning available
- Operator training and after-sales technical support provided
- Proven global deployments in over 30 countries
Why Choose Unique Group’s LARS?
- Over 200 units of diving LARS deployed worldwide
- Decades of experience in subsea engineering and system integration
- In-house design, fabrication, and testing under ISO-certified processes
- Full suite of mission equipment: LARS, winches, control cabins, and more
- Customised solutions for both greenfield and retrofit offshore projects
Need safe and reliable launch and recovery solutions for offshore operations?
Speak with one of our specialists today.