Zvezda SSK became the only Russian shipyard, that got a worldwide license for construction of LNG carriers with membrane storage system. Shipbuilding Complex signed license agreement about technical assistance and licensing (TALA) with French Engineering Company Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT), specializing in development and building licensing cryogen membrane system for transportation and storage of LNG. Development type of LNG-tank was made up on Zvezda in the framework of preparatory work to construction of LNG carriers. The object was executed at the stated time in line with all design rules, that agreed the high skills of engineering staff of Zvezda SSK.

The construction of LNG carriers is one of the most technologically-difficult procedures in the world’s shipbuilding. Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex has unique equipment for Russian shipyards, as well as advanced world-class technology, which provides for the implementation of such projects. The beginning of production of vessels of this class at Russian shipyards is unique event and one of the priority area of production program of Zvezda shipyard.

The first gas-carriers will be built on Zvezda shipyard on behalf of PJSC “Novatec” for Arctic LNG-2 Project. VEB.RF will accord funding for construction of new vessels. Zvezda SSK and a VEB Group Company concluded the Contracts for construction of five Arc7 LNG carriers for transportation of liquefied gas. These are the first vessels in the series of 15 units planned to be placed on Zvezda SSK. At present design documentation is being developed, the beginning of the construction of the first LNG carrier is planned for the end of 2020.

The Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex is constructed by the Rosneft-led Consortium upon the instruction of President of Russia Vladimir Putin. The Shipyard’s order portfolio amounts to 39 vessels (59 vessels including options) at the moment. The Shipyard’s pilot throughput is provided for by Rosneft that placed an order for 28 vessels. Zvezda’s product line will include vessels of up to 350 tonnes displacement, components of marine platforms, ice-class vessels, commercial vessels for cargo transportation, specialty vessels, and other types of marine equipment of any complexity, characteristics and purposes, including those that had not previously been produced in Russia due to the lack of required launching and hydraulic structures.

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The vessel’s design allows it ramming ice up to 2.1 m thick. Power package capacity of the gas carrier is 45 MW, which is comparable to the power of a nuclear icebreaker.

The length of the vessel is 300m, the beam is 48,8m, cargo gross tonnage of LNG tanks is 172,600 m³. These tankers are distinguished by increased environmental safety; in particular, they are mainly powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).

For the first time ever the construction of vessel of this class will be carried at a Russian shipyard. It should be noted that the Russian Federation had not been making such vessels, and for many years they had been ordered abroad.

The first gas-burning Aframax tanker has been launched from slipway in May, 2020.