Russian state development corporation VEB.RF is considering a huge financing package for the Zvezda Shipyard orderbook.
According to its press service, first deputy chairman Nikolai Tsekhomsky said: "VEB.RF is currently reviewing projects of shipbuilding at the Zvezda Shipyard amounting to over RUB 100bn ($1.5bn) in total."
Cash for six tankers, including two aframaxes, have already been approved by the supervisory board of the corporation.
"Funds amounting to 20% of the cost of each tanker will be provided to make an upfront payment to the Zvezda Shipyard in April, which will make possible to start their construction," Tsekhomsky added.
"Financing of construction is carried out via a special leasing company controlled by VEB-Leasing. Vessels are expected to be launched in 2022."
In a meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin, VEB.RF chairman Igor Shuvalov was quoted by the company as saying: "Since VEB has leasing tools, we work together with Sovcomflot, Rosneft and Novatek, and order vessels for their needs.
"These vessels...help us to build the most modern production facilities."
In January, yard owner Rosneft revealed orders for 19 more tankers and offshore ships at Zvezda.
It said the order backlog grew 42% in the second half of 2018 to 37 vessels.
Rosneft has ordered 26 ships itself, including 12 shuttle tankers of Arc6 and Arc7 class.
