An LNG carrier associated with Russia’s Arctic LNG 2 project has been unable to reach its destination after an unusually early freeze closed parts of the Gulf of Ob, disrupting late-season Arctic shipping activity.
The 293-metre LNG carrier Buran, delivered in 2023, was attempting to reach the Utrenny terminal when it encountered dense ice conditions. Tracking data from ShipAtlas and regional reports indicate the vessel made multiple attempts to progress through the ice but was ultimately forced to abandon the effort, even with support from Russia’s nuclear-powered icebreakers.
Ice formation in the region has accelerated rapidly in recent weeks, arriving earlier than expected and limiting navigation windows along this stretch of the Northern Sea Route.
The Buran is one of several modern LNG carriers linked to a fleet used to transport gas from Arctic LNG 2. Built at Samsung Heavy Industries, the vessel operates alongside sister ships Iris, Voskhod, and Zarya. Together, the group has been deployed to move cargoes—primarily bound for China—through Arctic waters that remain vulnerable to seasonal ice conditions.
According to Splash247, despite the latest setback, the fleet had maintained steady operations earlier in the year. Between summer and autumn 2025, the four vessels completed at least a dozen LNG shipments from the Kara Sea before deteriorating ice conditions curtailed movements.
The situation highlights the operational risks facing Arctic LNG transport, particularly as freeze-up periods arrive sooner and with less predictability. It remains uncertain when conditions will allow Buran to resume its approach or whether alternative arrangements will be made.
