Both companies are major players in the transportation market for oversized cargo and are pre-qualified with the main EPC contractors around the globe. Mammoet has formed a strategic partnership with marine equipment owner, Astro Offshore to expand its capacity to provide comprehensive solutions in on- and offshore transport for oil and gas construction projects in the Middle East. Astro Offshore owns and operates a fleet of offshore support vessels, including a variety of tugs and barges, providing services to oil & gas construction projects throughout the MENA region, while Mammoet provides engineered heavy lifting and transport solutions. Both companies are major players in the transportation market for oversized cargo and are pre-qualified with the main EPC contractors around the globe.   “As barging is a critical aspect in the transport chain for all future Oil and Gas projects in this region, our new partnership will bolster our available barge and tug fleet in the region, and accordingly further strengthens our services in on- and offshore transport,” said Martijn Kuipers, managing director of Mammoet Middle East and Africa. “With Mammoet’s state-of-the-art equipment, extensive expertise in marine engineering, dedicated team of naval architects, combined with the resources and the knowledge provided by Astro Offshore, we can offer a complete package of heavy lifting and transport services, from port to foundation, for any project at any location,” he added. Mark Humphreys, managing director of Astro Offshore Pte. Ltd commented: “We are pleased to announce this exciting partnership with Mammoet of which we believe will not only strengthen ties with existing customers, but new ones as well. Whilst harnessing Astro’s and Mammoet’s strengths, we believe the partnership can provide a plethora of ‘door to door’ turnkey transportation solutions.” “The synergies of both companies will further allow us to provide an unrivalled solution for our customers, leveraging on past projects experiences of executing large transportation jobs within the Middle East and subcontinent,” he added. AFP.