Novatek, Russia's top gas producer, has launched 'Severny Inzhinering' to enhance shipbuilding capabilities for Arctic projects amid sanctions.
Russia's largest independent natural gas producer, Novatek, has taken a new step in shipbuilding by expanding its vertical integration. The company has established a special shipbuilding subsidiary named 'Severny Inzhinering' (Northern Engineering).
The newly established company is expected to focus on the high-specification vessels required for Novatek's Arctic projects. In this context, the construction and maintenance of ice-class LNG carriers and condensate tankers will be prioritized.
This move comes at a time when Western sanctions have significantly restricted Russia's access to traditional Asian shipyards. Previously, Novatek collaborated with shipyards such as South Korea-based Hanwha Ocean (formerly DSME) and Samsung Heavy Industries for Arc7 class vessels. However, the suspension of these partnerships has directed the company towards developing its own capacity.
The new subsidiary will work alongside the Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex, which operates in Russia's Far East. However, it is known that Zvezda is facing delays and technology transfer issues following the withdrawal of Western equipment suppliers.
This development is considered a significant part of Novatek's strategic transformation aimed at increasing its operational independence in the face of sanctions.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
