The United Shipbuilding Corporation of Russia unveiled a new icebreaking vessel model designed to transport large quantities of natural gas.

The company showcased the “Synergy” ship model during the 14th St. Petersburg International Gas Forum, noting that the vessel will be classified as an Arc4 icebreaker. The development project is in collaboration with several Russian institutions and companies specializing in shipbuilding, focusing on developing natural gas carriers using technologies and equipment developed in Russia.

Regarding the project, Boris Bogomolov, Deputy General Director for Engineering Affairs at the company, said: “This is the first liquefied natural gas carrier with most of its components made from Russian parts; 90% of the ship’s components are locally produced. This is crucial for enhancing our country’s technological sovereignty and developing the shipbuilding industry in Russia. The vessel is designed to meet the needs of Gazprom’s LNG complex at the port of Ust-Luga and will significantly strengthen Russia’s position in the maritime LNG transport market. This type of ship can operate not only for Gazprom but also for many major Russian and international oil and gas companies.”

According to available information, the new “Synergy” ship will be 299 meters long, 47 meters wide, with its main hull consisting of 18 large blocks. It will be capable of transporting up to 170,000 cubic meters of liquefied natural gas and sailing at speeds up to 19.5 knots.