ClassNK has granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a 42,000 m³ liquefied CO₂ carrier, developed by leading companies including “K” LINE, MOL, NSY, NYK Line, MILES, and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding. This certification, presented at Gastech2026 in Bangkok, marks a significant step towards meeting the increasing demand for CO₂ transport solutions.
ClassNK has launched ‘Survey Compass’, an AI assistant for shipowners and management companies, enhancing classification survey operations. Users can ask questions in natural language, retrieving accurate information from relevant documents. This innovative tool aims to streamline survey preparations, reduce workloads, and support ClassNK’s vision of a comprehensive digital service platform.
ClassNK has released an updated edition of its ‘Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels’, enhancing safety protocols for vessels powered by methanol, ethanol, and hydrogen. Key revisions include structural strength standards for fuel tanks and the introduction of a hydrogen leak frequency table, promoting safer, regulatory-compliant designs in the marine industry.
Classification society ClassNK has introduced the world’s first notation, ‘a-EA (CFP)’, to verify greenhouse gas emissions from ship construction. This notation, part of ClassNK’s Environmental Guidelines, helps shipyards and owners demonstrate environmental value and supports accurate reporting of Scope 3 emissions, aligning with ISO 14067 standards for carbon footprint assessment.
ClassNK has received authorization from the French Government to conduct surveys for French-flagged vessels, allowing it to perform statutory surveys and issue certificates under international conventions like SOLAS and MARPOL. This enables ClassNK to offer comprehensive services, enhancing safety and compliance in the maritime industry.
ClassNK has launched the ClassNK Design Data Marketplace, a platform for sharing ship design data among maritime stakeholders. This initiative enhances collaboration between shipyards, design firms, and software providers, allowing users to easily access 3D models and digital services. It aims to extend design data utilization beyond shipbuilding phases.
NexusWave, Inmarsat Maritime’s fully managed connectivity service, has received Cyber Security Type Approval from ClassNK. This certification confirms compliance with the Unified Requirement UR E27, ensuring shipboard systems are designed for cyber resilience. Gert-Jan Panken highlighted its importance for shipowners, reinforcing a commitment to robust maritime cybersecurity.
ClassNK has introduced the “Guidelines for 3D Model-Based Approval (3DMBA),” establishing key principles for using 3D models in design approvals. This initiative enhances design efficiency by positioning 3D models as the primary approval basis. Accompanying systems, NK-PASS and ClassNK 3DViewer, streamline workflows, fostering collaboration among stakeholders in ship design.
ClassNK has awarded its “AUTO-Nav2(All)” notation to Genbu, Japan’s first newly constructed autonomous container ship. This recognition marks a significant milestone in autonomous navigation for medium- to long-distance coastal operations. Built by Kyokuyo Shipyard, the Genbu aims to enhance connectivity and support Japan’s aging maritime workforce.
ClassNK has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) for a liquefied CO2 carrier intended for a floating offshore carbon capture and storage facility. Designed for deepwater deployment with a Socket SPAR unit, this vessel meets regulatory and safety standards, supporting Japan’s Environmentally Friendly CCS Demonstration Project and addressing CO2 handling challenges.
ClassNK has validated the performance of the automated kite system, ‘Seawing,’ developed by Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha and OCEANICWING S.A.S. This validation, encapsulated in a Statement of Fact, highlights the system’s potential to meet environmental regulations and reduce fuel costs, reinforcing the maritime industry’s commitment to sustainability through wind-assisted propulsion systems.
ClassNK has released updated editions of two key documents: “FAQs on the EU-ETS for Shipping (3rd Edition)” and “FAQs on the FuelEU Maritime (5th Edition).” These resources aim to help maritime stakeholders navigate new environmental regulations. The EU Emissions Trading System and FuelEU Maritime regulations will impact vessels over 5,000 gross tonnage.
ClassNK has launched a pilot test with ten Japanese companies for its NK-PASS drawing approval system and the ClassNK 3DViewer, ahead of the 3D Model-Based Approval (3DMBA) debut in spring 2026. This innovative shift from 2D to 3D models enhances visualization, accuracy, and expedites design error identification.
On January 14, 2026, Coach Solutions partnered with ClassNK to automate emissions data verification for clients. This collaboration streamlines data transfer, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. By reducing manual workloads, shipowners can focus on actionable insights, promoting operational efficiency and sustainability in the shipping industry.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has received approval in principle from ClassNK for specialized vessels designed for subsea power cable jointing and burial. This project, in collaboration with Sumitomo Electric, Furukawa Electric, and NYK Line, aims to enhance power transmission integrity, particularly for offshore wind energy connections in Hokkaido.
