Qatar has begun redeploying several of its liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers to the Middle East in preparation for a full resumption of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, positioning itself to rapidly increase exports once navigation conditions normalize.
The move comes as McDermott International confirmed it has continued work on the expansion of QatarEnergy’s North Field East project, despite operational constraints caused by regional security tensions during the recent U.S.-Iran conflict.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer said offshore infrastructure installation for gas transportation has proceeded without interruption, expressing confidence that the project remains on schedule and will continue at full pace once regional stability improves.
North Field Expansion Remains on Track
The North Field East development represents the first phase of Qatar’s ambitious LNG expansion strategy and is expected to add approximately 32 million tonnes of annual export capacity, significantly strengthening the country’s position in the global energy market.
Since April, QatarEnergy has reportedly been conducting equipment testing and maintenance programs to ensure a rapid restart of full production. Several processing lines have continued operating at reduced capacity to maintain supplies to neighboring countries while preserving readiness for a production ramp-up.
Energy Sector Suffers Heavy War Losses
Energy consultancy Rystad Energy estimates that the conflict, which began on 28 February, caused approximately $58 billion in damage to regional energy infrastructure.
During the hostilities, Iran targeted oil and gas facilities across several Gulf states, including production sites, refineries, and pipeline networks. In response, Israel launched strikes against Iranian natural gas and petrochemical facilities.
The escalation intensified after Israel targeted Iran’s South Pars gas complex on 18 March, prompting Iran to strike Qatar’s LNG infrastructure, including the world’s largest liquefied natural gas export facility.
According to reports, the attack damaged two production lines responsible for around 17% of Qatar’s LNG exports, dealing a significant blow to global supply capacity.
In a statement issued on 19 March, QatarEnergy said the damage to its LNG facilities could result in approximately $20 billion in lost revenue, with repairs expected to take up to five years to complete.
