The tanker Buran departed the Arctic LNG 2 facility in Russia after failing to navigate through thick ice, halting a critical export operation. The incident underscores growing logistical challenges for Arctic energy shipments.
- The tanker Buran failed to load LNG at the Arctic LNG 2 facility in December 2025.
- Ice coverage in the Kara Sea reached 92% in early December, exceeding seasonal averages.
- Arctic LNG 2 has a design capacity of 19.8 million tons of LNG annually.
- A 100,000-ton cargo shipment was delayed due to the failed loading attempt.
- Asian LNG spot prices rose by 4.3% in the week following the incident.
- This marks the second major Arctic loading disruption for Russia in 2025.
The Russian-flagged tanker Buran reversed course from the Arctic LNG 2 export terminal in the Russian Arctic, according to ship-tracking data. The vessel had approached the facility in early December 2025 with the intent to load liquefied natural gas (LNG), but was blocked by ice conditions that prevented safe access. The Arctic LNG 2 project, operated by Novatek, is a key component of Russia’s strategy to expand LNG exports, particularly to Asian markets. This failed loading attempt marks the second such setback this year, highlighting persistent operational hurdles in the region’s harsh winter environment. The Buran’s departure follows an estimated 14-day delay in the scheduled loading window. The Arctic LNG 2 facility has a designed annual capacity of 19.8 million tons of LNG, with operations relying on icebreaker escort services and ice-class vessels. The incident raises concerns over delivery timelines for pre-contracted shipments, particularly those destined for Japan, South Korea, and China. The disruption affects a planned 100,000-ton cargo that was to be transported in early December. The failure to load underscores the vulnerability of Arctic energy infrastructure to extreme weather patterns and ice thickness variations. Even with advanced icebreaking support, navigation in the region remains highly sensitive to seasonal fluctuations. The Russian Federal Agency for Maritime and River Transport noted that ice coverage in the Kara Sea reached 92% in early December—well above the seasonal average—limiting vessel mobility. Market impacts include potential supply tightening in Asian LNG markets, where demand remains elevated. Spot prices for LNG in the Asia-Pacific region rose by 4.3% in the week following the incident, reflecting supply chain anxiety. Operators of other Arctic LNG projects, including Arctic LNG 1 and Yamal LNG, are reviewing their seasonal scheduling to mitigate similar risks.