SMART LNG, a joint venture between Sovcomflot and Novatek, has concluded an agreement with VEB.RF on financing the construction of four Arc 7 LNG tankers for Arctic 2 Project on a leasing basis. The vessels will be built at Zvezda Shipyard in the Russian Far East.
SMART LNG also signed long-term timer charter agreements with Arctic 2. Previously, the company signed a time charter agreement for the pilot LNG tanker of the series.
According to Sovcomflot, the new series will have better maneuverability and operating qualities in harsh ice conditions than the vessels built for Yamal LNG.
All the LNG carriers will be Russian flagged, the construction will be overseen by the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping.