The anodes were only discovered missing as the 59,500 metric-tonne hull rounded the Cape of Good Hope aboard the Dockwise heavy lift transport ship Blue Marlin en route to the Texas yard for topsides integration.
The anodes are used to spare the hull from corrosion resulting from contact with seawater.
"These things have got to be replaced before we can submerge the ship and put Thunder Horse back in the water," said a source familiar with the situation.
A
