The flag of Azerbaijan was hoisted on the Aframax tanker "Khankendi"
The fourth Aframax tanker, acquired as a result of a market study by the joint venture “SA Maritime AFEZCO”, established on a parity basis and registered in the Alat free economic zone with the approval of the supervisory boards of SOCAR and ASCO, was put into operation. According to the instruction of President Ilham Aliyev, the vessel was named “Khankendi” in honor of the ancient Azerbaijani land.
“Khankendi” will be managed by “ASCO Ship Management AFEZCO”, like our other Aframax tankers put into operation formerly.
Our tricolor flag was raised on the “Khankendi” tanker to the sounds of the National Anthem.
ASCO Board Chairman Deputy Tariyel Mirzayev congratulated seafarers on the commissioning of “Khankendi” tanker and wished the crew success.
At the event, captain of the vessel was also presented with national souvenirs.
At the ceremony, it was emphasized that the commissioning of “Khankendi” tanker, which has unrestricted navigation capabilities and is intended for operations beyond the Caspian Sea, is of strategic importance for Azerbaijan's economy and national shipping industry.
At the ceremony, it was also noted that establishment of a domestic sailors crew is one of the main priorities for both “Khankendi” and other vessels of this type. There are already Azerbaijani seafarers among the crew members of vessels of this type. Two of them are working on “Khankendi” vessel – third mate Jahangir Yagubov and fourth mechanic Teyyub Mammadov.
It should be noted that the deadweight (total carrying capacity) of the tanker, built incorporating the latest shipbuilding achievements is 115,521 tons. The length is 249.95 meters, the width is 44 meters, the height of the side is 21.20 meters, the draft is 15.22 meters, and maximum speed is 16 knots.
