Russia’s Zvezda yard to form jv with Samsung

The jv will create a more efficient project management system for construction of shuttle tankers ranging from 42,000 to 120,000 dwt at Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex. Russian oil company Rosneft has an exclusive agreement with the Zvezda yard to build all its new marine equipment and vessels. These include four multifunctional ice-class supply vessels, 10 Aframax class tankers, ten 42,000 dwt Arctic Shuttle tankers and a 69,000dwt Arctic Shuttle tanker.

Tanker company Sovcomflot has also recently ordered LNG-fuelled tankers from Zvezda, which will then be chartered on to Rosneft.

Read More: Sovcomflot orders LNG-powered aframax tanker duo

The agreement terms include exchange of experience in designing and construction of shuttle tankers. Samsung will provide technical specifications as well as the basic and detailed design of the vessels to Zvezda and will assist with development of detailed engineering drawings jointly with Lazurit Central Design Bureau.

The major Korean shipbuilder will also provide technical support for planning, project management and quality assurance during construction and assembly, procurement of materials and equipment and ensure the engineering support of construction of shuttle tankers at Zvezda.

In addition, Samsung will also train the Russian personnel at their shipyard and organize internship programmes at similar projects.