Kongsberg Maritime selected by Samsung Heavy Industries for nine-ship Shuttle Tanker project for Tsakos Group

Kongsberg Maritime has been awarded a significant contract by Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) to supply integrated technology packages for nine new Dynamic Positioning (DP) Shuttle Tankers.  

The vessels are being constructed for Greek shipowner Tsakos Group and will be a bare-boat charter by Brazilian energy logistics company Transpetro, supporting offshore operations in Brazil’s pre-salt oil fields. 

In March this year Tsakos Energy Navigation (TEN) signed a landmark $1.3 billion agreement for the construction of nine state-of-the-art DP2 Suezmax shuttle tankers with Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), of South Korea, backed by a long-term employment contract with Petrobras Transporte S.A. The 155,000 dwt shuttle tanker vessels, are set for delivery between 2027 and 2028, and will play a critical role in supporting Petrobras’ offshore fields the next 15 years.

This milestone solidified TEN’s position in the Global shuttle tanker segment, expanding its shuttle tanker fleet to 16 and placing it among the largest shuttle tanker owners worldwide. It was described as underscoring TEN’s ability to anticipate and address the evolving needs of top-tier clients, delivering tailored solutions amid the growing demand for highly specialised, technologically advanced vessels designed to support the complex logistics of next-generation energy projects.

Each of the nine new vessels will be equipped with a comprehensive suite of Kongsberg Maritime systems, reflecting the complex operational profile of shuttle tankers operating far from shore.

The scope of supply includes the K-Pos DP2 system ensuring precise station-keeping capabilities in dynamic offshore conditions. Kongsberg Maritime will also deliver its K-IMS Information Management System and the K-Chief Integrated Automation System, providing centralised control and monitoring of vessel operations. 

To support propulsion and power management, the vessels will feature the AutoChief 600 propulsion control system, while the K-Gauge (CLS) tank level gauging system will ensure accurate and reliable cargo monitoring.  

A complete single Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) shaftline with an 8.6m propeller is also part of the Kongsberg Maritime delivery. 

Together, these systems form a fully integrated solution designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and environmental performance across the fleet. 

“This contract highlights the strength of our integrated technology offering and our ability to support complex offshore operations with reliable, efficient, and future-ready solutions,” said Tommy Andree Hove, Sales Director - Advanced Offshore Units, Kongsberg Maritime. “We are proud to collaborate with SHI, Tsakos, and Transpetro on this strategically important project.” 

Construction of the vessels will take place at SHI’s shipyard in South Korea, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2027.