EU’s Only Firm Set to Repair Tankers for Russian LNG: What the Upcoming Ban Means.

Fayard’s Maintenance of Arc7 Tankers

According to Espreso.tv: Denmark-based Fayard stands as the sole company within the European Union that services Arc7-class tankers, which are designed to transport liquefied natural gas from Siberia, Russia. These icebreaking vessels play a critical role in moving gas from the Yamal complex. In the summer of 2023, Fayard plans to carry out repairs on 6 of the 15 Arc7 tankers, a move tied to preparations for an EU ban on maritime services for Russia-linked LNG ships set to take effect in 2027.

During 2025, Fayard serviced five tankers carrying liquefied gas from Yamal. However, it is worth noting that Dutch company Damen halted maintenance of the Arc7 fleet in 2025 due to the Netherlands’ foreign policy. This shift highlights changing attitudes toward Russian energy resources amid international political developments.

Fayard’s Strategic Role

As a result, Fayard has become the only operator in the EU still maintaining Arc7 tankers, underscoring the company’s importance in a shifting geopolitical landscape.

The situation surrounding Fayard’s servicing of Arc7 tankers reflects broader trends in European energy policy, which are emerging against a backdrop of increasing Western pressure on Russia. With the forthcoming prohibition on maritime services for Russia-related vessels, maintaining these tankers grows ever more critical—potentially impacting gas supplies to the EU.

• The transition to alternative energy sources will also be a key factor in the future evolution of Europe’s energy market.