The deal involves constructing vessels measuring 344 meters long, 53.6 meters wide, and with a draft of 12 meters. These ships will utilize advanced technology, including WinGD dual-fuel propulsion and GTT’s NO96 Super+ containment tech.
While the exact price and delivery dates were not disclosed, it's part of QatarEnergy's extensive shipbuilding initiative. This program includes the construction of various vessels, including LNG carriers and conventional-sized ships, to support Qatar's expansion projects and meet future demands.
QatarEnergy has also been busy selecting shipowners to operate these vessels under charter agreements. Nakilat, China Merchants Energy Shipping (CMES), Shandong Marine, and China LNG Shipping (CLNG) are among the companies chosen to own and operate these ships, serving QatarEnergy until 2031.
Notably, Nakilat already owns and operates several Q-Max LNG carriers, transporting LNG from Qatar's Ras Laffan LNG complex globally. With this latest development, QatarEnergy's shipbuilding program now encompasses a total of 122 vessels.
The program's aim is to support Qatar's North Field expansion projects and the Golden Pass LNG project in the US, as well as to replace existing vessels in Qatar's LNG fleet. The expansion projects will significantly increase Qatar's LNG production capacity, enhancing its position as a major player in the global LNG market.