Blue Steel Srl, owner of the IRON FIST brand, proudly attended Seawork 2026 alongside its UK partner, Iron Fist Cranes UK, marking an important new milestone in the company’s international growth and its commitment to the offshore wind and commercial marine sectors.
Seawork 2026 provided IRON FIST with an important opportunity to meet shipbuilders, vessel operators, naval architects and maritime professionals, while presenting its latest lifting solutions developed for demanding marine and offshore operations.
The event also served as the setting for a significant commercial agreement involving Iron Fist Cranes UK and Pacific Radiance, which confirmed their intention to equip future stock-build Crew Transfer Vessels with Italian-manufactured IRON FIST marine cranes.
A Strategic Agreement for Pacific Radiance CTVs
During Seawork 2026, Iron Fist Cranes UK and Pacific Radiance announced an agreement aimed at installing IRON FIST cranes on Pacific Radiance’s next generation of Crew Transfer Vessels.
Pacific Radiance currently has two vessels under construction, with two additional builds scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2027. From 2027 onwards, the company plans to move towards an annual production capacity of four vessels.
The initial supply will involve the IRON FIST IFG117M4, a crane specifically configured for installation aboard Pacific Radiance’s 27-metre Chartwell Design CTVs.
“The lightweight IFG117M4, at only 1,300 kg and with a 10-metre outreach, will be a valuable asset to the vessel.”
— BH Lau, Chief Operating Officer of Pacific Radiance
The selection of the IFG117M4 reflects the growing importance of weight optimisation, operational flexibility and equipment reliability in the design of modern Crew Transfer Vessels. These vessels must combine performance, efficiency and safety while supporting personnel transfer and offshore wind farm operations in challenging marine environments.
Italian Engineering for the Offshore Wind Industry
Designed and manufactured in Italy by Blue Steel Srl under the IRON FIST brand, the IFG117M4 has been developed to provide an effective balance between low weight, compact dimensions and operational reach.
For CTV operators and shipbuilders, reducing the weight of onboard equipment can contribute to improved vessel efficiency, payload management and overall performance. At the same time, the crane must remain robust enough to withstand intensive use, exposure to salt water and the demanding conditions commonly encountered in offshore operations.
The agreement announced at Seawork therefore represents more than a new supply opportunity. It confirms IRON FIST’s ability to design application-specific lifting systems capable of meeting the technical and operational requirements of a rapidly evolving maritime sector.
Iron Fist Cranes UK Appointed as Shipyard Representative
Pacific Radiance has also appointed Tim Baily, Managing Director and owner of Iron Fist Cranes UK, as its UK shipyard representative.
With extensive experience in the construction of Crew Transfer Vessels and a well-established network across the UK marine industry, Tim Baily will support the relationship between Pacific Radiance, vessel operators and the wider British maritime market.
“I have worked with Pacific Radiance for over seven years and know first-hand the quality of their work. I look forward to being their UK representative and introducing operators to their shipyard and to the quality of the vessels they produce.”
— Tim Baily, Managing Director of Iron Fist Cranes UK
The appointment further strengthens the collaboration between IRON FIST’s Italian manufacturing expertise and Iron Fist Cranes UK’s commercial and technical presence in the British market.
More Than 30 Years of Marine Crane Experience
IRON FIST has more than 30 years of experience in the design and manufacture of hydraulic cranes for shipboard and offshore applications.
The company’s product range includes:
- telescopic boom cranes;
- telescopic knuckle boom cranes;
- stiff boom cranes;
- fully foldable cranes;
- rescue boat and life-saving appliance cranes;
- custom-built cranes for specialised marine and offshore applications.
Every project begins with a detailed assessment of the vessel, the operating environment and the customer’s lifting requirements. This engineering-led approach enables IRON FIST to develop both standard and bespoke solutions, combining high-strength materials, precise hydraulic control and marine-grade surface protection.
IRON FIST cranes can be designed and manufactured in accordance with major international standards, including EN 13852, API 2C and EN 12999, as well as the requirements of leading naval classification societies such as RINA, ABS, Bureau Veritas, CCS, DNV and Lloyd’s Register.
Reliability, Safety and Long-Term Operational Support
In the marine and offshore industries, a crane must continue to operate safely and consistently throughout its service life. For this reason, IRON FIST’s commitment extends beyond design and delivery.
The company provides technical assistance, genuine spare parts, diagnostics, maintenance and restoration services designed to minimise downtime and preserve equipment performance over time.
IRON FIST is also developing advanced remote-assistance services based on augmented reality technologies. These solutions allow specialised engineers to support onboard technicians in real time, providing visual instructions, technical diagrams and guided diagnostic procedures directly in the working environment.
This combination of mechanical expertise, digital innovation and direct manufacturer support is particularly valuable for international fleets operating far from conventional service centres.
A Proud International Showcase for the IRON FIST Brand
The presence of IRON FIST and Iron Fist Cranes UK at Seawork 2026 represented an important showcase for Italian marine engineering and for the growing international network built around the IRON FIST brand.
Visitors to stand WB24 were able to explore the company’s latest CTV crane solutions and discuss the technical requirements of new vessel projects directly with industry specialists.
The agreement with Pacific Radiance confirms the value of a strategy based on specialised engineering, close cooperation with shipyards and operators, and a strong local presence in key international markets.
For Blue Steel Srl, Seawork 2026 was therefore not only an exhibition, but also a concrete demonstration of the company’s ability to contribute to the future of commercial marine operations and offshore wind logistics.
Discover IRON FIST Marine Crane Solutions
IRON FIST designs and manufactures hydraulic marine cranes for vessels, shipyards and offshore operators worldwide. From lightweight CTV cranes to heavy-duty and fully customised lifting systems, each solution is developed to deliver safety, reliability and long-term operational performance.
Contact the IRON FIST team to discuss your next marine or offshore lifting project.
Read more articles
- Log in to post comments