A Company official told Interfax in the end of November that the Russian Malakhit Design Bureau, which is planning the raising of the submarine, has invited Mammoet to participate in the project but an official invitation will not likely be issued until Russia resolves the crucial financing issue. The salvage operation was originally planned for July-August 2005 but then was postponed for indefinite period due to the financial problems. The estimated cost of the operation is from $80m to $90m.

The official did not rule out the possibility that Malakhit is engaged in similar talks with other companies.

No significant decisions are likely to be made before the end of the year, he said. It may be important for Russia that Mammoet gained a unique experience while raising the Kursk nuclear-powered submarine, the official said. He added that Mammoet is prepared to provide assistance again, reported Interfax.