Russian shipowner Sovcomflot (SCF) and energy company Novatek have signed a deal that strengthens their existing partnership in the Arctic, including a shipping joint venture.

The two companies will develop logistical support for the Yamal LNG, Arctic LNG-2 and other Novatek projects.

"This agreement continues the strategic partnership between the two Russian companies, to develop an efficient logistics solution for shipping oil and gas products within Russia Arctic seas, optimising the number of vessels deployed as well as their technical specifications," SCF said.