The Sakhalin II gas and oil field offshore the Sakhalin Island will be developed with two offshore platforms with concrete substructures sitting on the seabed. The surrounding conditions in this region are challenging. The area is subject to seismic activity and pack ice is generated and drifts from the Sea of Okhotsk every year from October to May. The concrete substructures ensure robust foundations in harsh weather condition.

Aker Kvaerner's new contract includes engineering, procurement, management and project services for two platform substructures. The concept builds on the experience from other concrete platforms developed and delivered by Aker Kvaerner both in the North Sea and offshore Canada.

Aker Kvaerner also contributes with experience to the project execution model, where the client's organisation, several contractors and local workforces will co-operate from a number of international locations.

- This is a major milestone as Russia is a strategically important market to Aker Kvaerner. The new assignment will strengthen our position when competing for other projects both in the Sakhalin region and elsewhere in Russia, says Helge Lund, CEO of Aker Kvaerner.

Aker Kvaerner has already started the engineering and procurement for the two platforms from its offices in Oslo. Mr. Astor Nyborg has been appointed project manager, based on his experience with management of large and challenging projects in several countries, including the similar Hibernia project offshore Newfoundland.

During the project development, there will also be key personnel at the construction site Vostochny Port close to Vladivostok in Russia. Aker Kvaerner will also supply construction management assistance to Quattrogemini, the Finnish contractor responsible for establishing the dry dock and the construction of the concrete substructures to the project.