Starnav Elektra christened to support Petrobras offshore operations

The Starnav Elektra, a Platform Supply Vessel (PSV), was officially christened at Pier Mauá in Rio de Janeiro. Built at the Detroit Shipyard in Itajaí, the vessel is the first of ten offshore support ships being constructed through a series of financing agreements involving the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES).

The vessel features hybrid diesel-electric propulsion and battery banks, designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 18% compared to current fleets. It will support Petrobras operations in Brazilian oil basins, transporting essential supplies such as water, diesel, cement, and chemicals between offshore platforms and land bases.

Petrobras President Magda Chambriard noted that the company aims to contract 48 vessels by the end of this year, with a goal of reaching 96 vessels by next year. This initiative is part of the 'Programa Mar Aberto', intended to renew and expand the Petrobras fleet while boosting the national naval industry. BNDES has approved further financing of R$ 2.5 billion for 2025 to construct eight additional vessels, including oil spill recovery ships.