In parallel with ship design, there is continuous development of Rolls-Royce marine equipment and systems. The long stroke version of the Bergen B-series diesel engine, B32:40, and the smaller C-series diesels have been successfully introduced into offshore service.

Engines fuelled by natural gas are also available for electric transmission or direct mechanical drive. Anchor handling/towing winches have been rationalised and a new winch based on 64 bar hydraulic engines is coming into use. This is a flexible design in that the width of the drums and spooling gear can be configured to suit the beam of the vessel and the owner's requirements. Rolls-Royce has been developing its own dynamic positioning and integrated bridge systems. The first example is now in service in a Norwegian coast guard ship, and IMO-class dynamic positioning (DP) systems will be introduced later this year.

A major success story in supply boat propulsion is the Ulstein Aquamaster Azipull thruster.This azimuthing thruster has a streamlined underwater unit and a pulling propeller. The first pair for offshore use were installed in the diesel electric UT 745 E platform supply vessel (PSV) Havila Tampen (now Bourbon Tampen) and fuel consumption in its normal North Sea supply duties has been dramatically reduced by over 16%, not only saving money but reducing emissions. At the same time crew comfort is enhanced by reduced noise and vibration. Many offshore vessels now on order are specifying Azipull propulsion.