In a statement Damen Shipyards Groupsaid the order reflects a strategic shift from chartered to owned tonnage and signalsthe state-controlled energy giant’s commitment to fleet renewal.

Seven of the ASD 2810-type tugs will be constructedby the shipbuilding conglomerate’s facility in Romania, Damen Shipyards Galati.

The remainder will be built in Vietnam bySong Cam, a joint venture between Damen and Shipbuilding Industry Corp, formerly knownas Vinashin.

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