European shipyards quietly sustain Russia’s LNG surge amid record gas flows to Europe

Russian LNG continues to reach Europe at unprecedented levels, supported by crucial maintenance provided by two European shipyards in France and Denmark, reports High North News. The article outlined how these facilities are essential in maintaining the specialized fleet that services Russia’s Yamal liquefied natural gas (LNG) project.

• Damen Shiprepair in France and Fayard A/S in Denmark have serviced 14 out of 15 ice-class LNG vessels of Russia’s Yamal project since February 2022.
• Eight vessels have been serviced in Brest, France, while seven have been dry docked in Odense, Denmark, highlighting the importance of these locations.
• Despite Western sanctions on Russian energy projects, the maintenance activities at these shipyards do not violate any international sanctions.
• Countries like Belgium, France, and Spain continue to purchase large volumes of Russian LNG, with the vessels owned by companies from Greece, Bermuda, and other regions.
• The shipyards’ central locations along major trade routes are crucial for minimizing costs and maximizing the efficiency of Russia’s LNG fleet operations.
• The Dutch Damen Group, owner of Damen Shiprepair, complies with all international sanctions and has ceased other business activities in Russia.
• Proximity to trade routes helps avoid costly detours, with industry experts noting the importance of dry dock availability and proximity to minimize operational losses.
• The ongoing availability of these European shipyards is vital to the uninterrupted flow of Russian LNG to European markets, ensuring the operational readiness of the Yamal fleet.