Al-Basrah Oil Terminal Increases Export Loading Capacity

Gulf Region Southern District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ^ | By Lisa J. Anderson

[SandRat]

(GRD Photos)

Base Camp Adder (Ali Base) Iraq – Al-Basrah’s offshore oil terminal in Umm Qasr has increased its loading capacity due to the recent completion of repairs to six damaged loading arms on Platform B, Berths 3 and 4. Extensive repairs included total refurbishment of the hydraulic systems, vacuums and power lines.

The loading arm repairs provide safer, more efficient equipment and contribute greatly to restoring the terminal to full capacity. The repairs will also accommodate a larger number of vessels which means more oil and other goods can be exported from the terminal.

This tasking was one of eight under the Al-Basrah Oil Terminal project, a major terminal overhaul that will improve Iraq’s ability to export oil and stimulate its economy. The ABOT is essential to Iraq’s reconstruction because oil exports generate revenues of approximately $130 million per day. It is one of Iraq’s two operating offshore terminals; the second, Kwahr Abd Allah Oil Terminal (KAAOT), needs repair and is limited to loading small tankers.

This construction project was completed at a cost of $434,000. Construction was funded by the Iraqi Relief and Reconstruction Fund and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

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Lisa Anderson is a Public Affairs Officer for the Gulf Region Southern District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Iraq. Requests for more information should be directed to the GRS Public Affairs Office at 540-542-2656. Email requests can be sent to lisa.anderson@tac01.usace.army.mil. For more information on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Iraq, visit www.grd.usace.army.mil.