A subsea pig launcher, that can launch either 1 or more pipeline pigs
simultaneously. The pig launcher can be assembled on a subseas production
pipeline with the aid of an ROV. In the preferred embodiment, the pigs are
connected to each other and spaced apart by a spine. The pig launcher is
configured to capture the next pig to be launched in such a manner that
the spine behind it is in alignment with a shearing valve; for example,
coiled tubing or wireline. Sequential valve operation shears the spine and
applies pressure behind the pig to launch it from the launcher past the
pig detector and onto a platform for recapture.