Shell Australia has awarded a major contract for the design, construction and operation of three Infield Support Vessels (ISVs), which will create approximately 80 local jobs and support its Prelude FLNG Project, located 475km north-north east of Broome, in Western Australia.

Perth-based KT Maritime Services Australia Pty Ltd, a joint venture partnership with KOTUG International B.V and Teekay Shipping Australia Pty Ltd, will supply three 42-meter, 100-metric-ton bollard-pull vessels to assist in product offloading during the operations phase of the project. The ISVs will operate out of the Port of Broome on a rotation.

The vessels have been specifically designed to meet the Prelude FLNG facility’s unique marine services requirements which include tanker berthing and offshore operations support, including emergency response, for a period of at least 25 years. The contract is expected to create approximately 80 new Australian jobs and includes commitments to the employment of Indigenous trainees supported by Aboriginal Marine Services based in Perth.

“This is a very significant contract when it comes to the ongoing operation of Prelude FLNG, and our key priorities in awarding the contract were finding a partner who could deliver the vessels and services safely, and secure good local employment and training outcomes,” said Shell Australia Country Chair, Andrew Smith.

“This contract is an example of the long term benefits of Prelude FLNG. During the operations and maintenance phase we expect to spend at least $200 million per year on local content, this is a very positive level of investment into the Australian economy.”

David Parmeter, Director, KT Maritime said, “To be part of Shell’s first deployment of Floating LNG technology is an important milestone for our business, and we look forward to supporting the Prelude FLNG development throughout its operations.”

“This joint partnership combines the technical innovation and expertise of KOTUG, with Teekay’s experience as a marine operator in Australia.”