Gazprom Neft deploys all-purpose icebreaker at Arctic offshore field

Gazprom Neft Shelf has taken a lease on the 2018-built multi-purpose icebreaker Sayan Polaris.

The vessel will support operations at the Prirazlomnoye project in the Barents Sea, bringing in supplies while also acting as a floating hotel and, if necessary, performing emergency response and rescue operations.

JSC Marine Arctic Geological Exploration has modernised the vessel to operate in the extreme environmental and climatic conditions at this far-north latitude.

The vessel has undergone enhancements to its icebreaking capacity and passenger capacity increased (up to 100 personnel), and a special crane and emergency oil-spill-response equipment have also been installed.

According to Gazprom Neft, the reinforced hull allows it to operate in Arctic conditions, even in very low temperatures, and its propulsion and DP systems enable the vessel to hold its station at all times, with no need for anchoring or mooring.

Multi-purpose icebreakers deliver freight from supply bases in Murmansk to the drilling and production platform at the field, also helping to secure shuttle tankers during cargo handling.

They are designed to be ‘double-acting,’ capable of moving forwards and backwards in ice.

Source: Offshore Magazine