Brazil’s Starnav secures R$2.5 bln funding to build hybrid vessels at Itajaí shipyard

With resources from the Merchant Marine Fund, Starnav Serviços Marítimos signed a R$2.5 billion financing contract with the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) for the construction of eight vessels at the Detroit Brasil shipyard.

The vessels to be built include four Platform Supply Vessels (PSVs) and four Oil Spill Recovery Vessels (OSRVs), all equipped with hybrid propulsion systems (diesel-electric with battery banks). The expectation is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by around 18% compared to the current fleet, while expanding support capacity for offshore oil and gas operations.

The Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho, emphasized the strategic role of the Merchant Marine Fund (FMM) for Brazil’s naval sector. “The Fund is essential to support shipbuilding in the country. This signing reinforces our commitment to the growth of the naval and port sector, with the generation of jobs and income for the region, and it contributes to technological innovation and sustainability,” he said. The Ministry of Ports and Airports is responsible for managing the Fund.

During the construction phase, the Detroit Brasil shipyard is expected to generate 4,500 direct jobs, boosting the local economy and strengthening the national supply chain. Once completed, the ships will be chartered by Petrobras under 12-year contracts.

For the National Secretary of Waterways and Navigation, Dino Antunes, the project will strengthen and create jobs for the naval sector. “Investments like this strengthen navigation infrastructure, increase transport efficiency, generate jobs, and promote more sustainable operations. This project, in partnership with BNDES, represents an important step toward consolidating the shipbuilding industry and improving Brazilian logistics,” the secretary highlighted.

The president of BNDES, Aloizio Mercadante, stressed the importance of the Merchant Marine Fund (FMM) in driving investment in Santa Catarina’s shipbuilding industry.

“We are approving R$2.5 billion for the construction of eight vessels at the Detroit Brasil shipyard, which will feature hybrid diesel and lithium-battery technology. This initiative reinforces the federal government’s effort to strengthen the shipbuilding industry and the state’s infrastructure,” Mercadante concluded.

Source: Portal Portuario

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