Petrobras’ fleet modernization quest leads to deals for 12 new PSVs, with more to follow

Brazil’s state-owned energy giant Petrobras has signed contracts for the construction and chartering of 12 platform supply vessels (PSVs) and is expected to hand out a contract for six more.

Petrobras said it signed contracts with R$16.5 billion, or approximately $2.68 billion, for 12 vessels, with R$5.2 billion, or around $850 million, going to investments in shipbuilding in Brazil. Construction and chartering deals were signed with two Brazilian companies, Bram Offshore and Starnav Serviços Marítimos. 

This was announced during the meeting of the Council for Sustainable Economic and Social Development (CDESS), on December 12, 2024. According to Petrobras’ CEO, Magda Chambriard, the modernization of the support vessel fleet is one of the initiatives in her company’s business plan for the 2025–2029 period. 

“These new units will not only incorporate the latest technology, but also represent our commitment to sustainable and innovative best practices. These are projects that meet the highest environmental, social and governance standards, essential for a sustainable future, in addition to generating around 11,000 direct and indirect jobs,” said Petrobras’ CEO.

Each company will be responsible for chartering six vessels for Petrobras, with contracts entailing a period of up to four years for mobilization and 12 years of operation. The vessels will be built in Bram and Starnav’s shipyards in Navegantes and Itajaí, respectively. 

The support vessels will have a hybrid propulsion system, combining electric motors and batteries with diesel or biodiesel generators. This is said to be in line with the energy giant’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Furthermore, Petrobras is expected to hand out another contract for six hybrid large multipurpose 5,000 DWT PSVs with oil spill recovery capacity to Compagnie Maritime Monegasque (CMM), which emerged as the winner of a relevant tender. Norway’s Kongsberg Maritime is set to provide ship design and technology services.

Christophe Vancauwenbergh, CEO of CMM, noted: “Kongsberg Maritime’s innovative ship design is integral to achieving our vision for more efficient and sustainable offshore operations. Their expertise and Brazilian presence have been critical to the success of this bid, and we are optimistic about final confirmation of the tender.”

According to Kongsberg Maritime, the 92-meter UT7420 is the latest generation of its UT design range. The vessels are designed to be upgraded to ethanol fuel, enabling a reduction in carbon emissions by up to 70%.

Atle Gaasø, Sales Director Offshore, Kongsberg Maritime, said: “Our longstanding presence in Brazil, with more than 50 offshore vessels built and a dedicated team of over 200 engaged employees, enables us to deliver tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of Petrobras and CMM. In addition, our experience and capabilities position us to effectively support Enseada Shipyard in achieving the high standards required for this transformative project.”

Alongside modernizing its PSV fleet, Petrobras recently finished the anchoring activities for its new floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel, Almirante Tamandaré. The vessel, which is said to be the biggest of its kind off the coast of Brazil to date, is set to work on the Petrobras-operated Búzios field, targeting first oil in early 2025.