SHI To Build Arctic LNG Ship For Zvezda

In a significant development for the Arctic LNG 2 project, Russia’s Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex has awarded a contract to South Korea’s Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for the construction of liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers. This partnership will not only involve the design and technical specifications for the vessels but also the establishment of a joint venture to oversee the construction of tankers at the Zvezda Shipyard.

Innovative Design for Extreme Conditions

Samsung Heavy Industries is set to design LNG carriers equipped with a powerful 45 MW capacity. These vessels will be engineered to navigate harsh Arctic conditions, capable of breaking through ice up to 2.1 meters thick and operating in temperatures as low as -52°C. An SHI spokesperson emphasized the company’s competitive advantage in the icebreaking sector, stating, “The contract we have signed proves that SHI has a competitive edge in icebreaking and LNG carriers.” This innovation positions SHI to strengthen its presence in the Arctic shipping market, where specialized vessels are crucial for safe and efficient transportation.

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As part of the agreement, SHI will provide Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex with comprehensive technical specifications and documentation for the LNG carriers. Additionally, the companies will collaborate on developing working-design shuttle tankers, leveraging expertise from the Lazurit central design bureau. This partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing the capabilities of the Russian shipbuilding industry while addressing the growing demand for LNG transportation in challenging environments.

Joint Venture to Boost Shipbuilding Capacity

The collaboration between Samsung Heavy Industries and Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex extends beyond just the LNG carriers. The two companies have agreed to form a joint venture that will manage the construction of tankers ranging from 42,000 to 120,000 deadweight tons (dwt) at the Zvezda Shipyard. This initiative aims to bolster the shipbuilding capacity in Russia and enhance the technological capabilities of the local industry.

By pooling resources and expertise, the joint venture is expected to streamline the construction process and improve the overall efficiency of tanker production. This strategic alliance not only signifies a commitment to advancing shipbuilding technology but also highlights the growing importance of LNG as a cleaner energy source in the global market. As the demand for LNG continues to rise, this partnership positions both companies to play a pivotal role in meeting future energy needs while navigating the complexities of Arctic operations.