Russia’s First Domestically Built Ice-Class LNG Tanker Set To Launch Soon

Russia’s first domestically built ice-class liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker is expected to begin operating in the second half of 2024 at the Arctic LNG 2 project. The update was shared by Sovcomflot, a Russian tanker company, as reported by Interfax news agency.

The vessel, named Alexey Kosygin after the former Soviet statesman, was constructed at the Zvezda shipyard. It will become part of the fleet designated to support LNG transportation from the Arctic LNG 2 plant, which is located in Russia’s far north.

Currently, the Arctic LNG 2 project has been facing export challenges due to a shortage of ice-class tankers. International sanctions imposed in response to the conflict in Ukraine have disrupted Russia’s access to foreign-built vessels that can cut through thick Arctic ice.

This shortage has delayed the export of cargo from the plant, even though the first stage of Arctic LNG 2 began operations in late 2023.

The Alexey Kosygin has already undergone initial sea trials, which began at the end of last year. According to Sovcomflot’s CEO, Igor Tonkovidov, the final phase of testing is scheduled to begin at the end of this month. He said that if all performance parameters are met, there is a strong possibility the vessel will be commissioned for operation later this year.

The tanker has already been placed under U.S. sanctions but remains essential for maintaining Russia’s LNG export capability in Arctic waters. It is designed to navigate through ice up to two meters (6.5 feet) thick, making it suitable for year-round transport in extreme conditions.

Arctic LNG 2 is operated by Russian energy firm Novatek, which owns a 60% stake in the project. Novatek has announced plans to use a total of 21 Arc7 ice-class tankers for LNG transport from its Arctic operations. Out of these, 15 will be built at the Zvezda shipyard, including the Alexey Kosygin.

Reference: Reuters

Source: Maritime Shipping News