GdF confirms second LNG carrier

Gaz de France (GdF) and Alstom signed a letter of intent on 3 July 2003 for the construction of a 153,000 m3 LNG carrier, with an option for a second identical LNG carrier. The order for the first LNG carrier was confirmed last September for delivery in October 2005 and GdF has just confirmed the option for the second LNG carrier, in partnership with Japanese shipowner NYK Line. The construction contract should be signed before the end of June 2004 with delivery scheduled for October 2006.

This first vessel is currently under construction at the Chantiers de l?Atlantique shipyard and, like its sister-ship, will be the world?s largest LNG and will integrate innovative technologies such as an electric diesel-gas propulsion system and membrane insulation based on CS1 type technology.