Doomed Arctic LNG platform arrives in Gydan

The gigantic platform on the 25th of July started its more than 2,000 km long voyage from Belokamenka near Murmansk to Gydan, the remote peninsula where Novatek is developing its Arctic LNG 2 project.

On the 17th of August, the more than 110 meter high object reached its destination. Its proportions made it easy to spot on satellite photos.

The gravity-based structure was on the 25th of July towed out from the construction center in Belokamenka and through the heavily militarised Kola Bay. Photo: Belokamenka51 on VK

On the day before arrival, the gravity-based structure could be seen about 50 km away from the port of Utrenny. It was towed by three tugs, and surrounded by a number of more support vessels.  In the wake of the ships was a thick belt of muddy waters from the shallow bay.

The Arctic LNG 2 floating production platform on the 16th of August approached the port of Utrenny. Image: Senitel-2 satellite

In Utrenny, the platform docked next to the similar structure that was sent from Murmansk to Gydan in August 2023.

The two gravity-based  structures are key components in Novatek’s Arctic LNG 2 project. They are designed to produce up to 6,6 million tons of LNG per year each. A third structure is due to arrive in Utrenneye in 2025.

However, the fate of the three gravity-based structures hangs in the balance as mounting international sanctions target Russia’s LNG industry.

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