DNV has completed a study for EMSA on hydrogen safety as a marine fuel, recommending a design-based approach for hydrogen-fueled vessels. The report emphasizes the need for secondary enclosures and additional technical barriers due to hydrogen’s unique hazards, highlighting the importance of crew training and robust containment systems to mitigate risks.
GustoMSC, a subsidiary of NOV, has secured contracts to design and supply equipment for Hanwha Ocean’s new wind turbine installation vessel, based on the NG-16000X design. Scheduled for delivery in Q2 2028, this vessel will enhance South Korea’s offshore wind capabilities, supporting the government’s goal of 25 GW by 2035.
Kongsberg Maritime has been awarded a contract by Consórcio Marenova to design four handy-size product tankers for Petrobras Transporte, valued at over $31 million. These vessels, measuring 150.6 meters long, will feature advanced systems and be ready for methanol and ethanol, emphasizing innovation and sustainability in Brazil’s shipbuilding industry.
The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has granted approval in principle to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for a floating offshore substation design tailored for deepwater wind farms. This innovative concept features a robust structural health management system, enhancing asset integrity and enabling efficient electricity transmission from wind turbines to onshore grids.
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.
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., alongside Imabari Shipbuilding, “K” LINE, MOL, NYK Line, JMU, and NSY, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a standard design framework for liquefied CO2 carriers and next-gen alternative fuel vessels. This initiative emphasizes decarbonization technologies, enhancing Japan’s shipbuilding competitiveness globally.
Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) has granted SRC an Approval in Principle (AiP) for its innovative tank design, Methanol Superstorage. Utilizing Sandwich Plate System technology, it nearly doubles storage capacity for methanol and ethanol compared to conventional tanks, addressing challenges related to methanol’s lower energy density. This marks a significant industry milestone.
At the NOR-Shipping Messe Fair, DNV awarded HD Hyundai Heavy Industries an Approval in Principle for its innovative 40,000 CBM liquefied CO₂ carrier design. By reducing the number of freight tanks from four to three, the design enhances operational efficiency and simplifies maintenance, marking a significant advancement in CO₂ transportation technology.
Knutsen NYK Carbon Carriers, a subsidiary of NYK and Knutsen Group, has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from ClassNK for its designs of liquefied CO2 carriers and a floating liquefied storage facility. These developments aim to contribute to the CCUS sector by addressing challenges like cost reduction and land requirements.
Onomichi Dockyard and Tsuneishi Shipbuilding have collaborated to develop the innovative Bingo 42 dry bulk carrier design, aiming to enhance efficiency and sustainability. With a focus on productivity and fuel efficiency, the vessel incorporates the MT-Fast energy-saving device and dual-fuel capability. This partnership showcases a commitment to innovation in the shipbuilding industry.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has formed a Shipbuilding Design Research Committee to support the shipbuilding industry. This panel, headed by the Additional Secretary, includes key officials from various departments and organizations. Their goal is to advise the government on creating a Shipbuilding Design and Research Centre and advancing the National Shipbuilding Mission.
On February 6, 2025, ABS announced the maturity of Aikido Technologies’ floating wind platform design, a milestone in the qualification process. The successful demonstration of the Aikido One unit was key in this decision. ABS highlighted the platform’s ability to simplify deployment and reduce costs for the offshore wind industry.
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding and Nippon Gas Line have received Approval in Principle for a low-pressure type LCO2 carrier for coastal transportation. This certification aligns with the increasing demand for LCO2 carriers in CCS projects in Japan. The partnership aims to provide a safe and efficient solution for transporting CO2 for storage.
FarSounder was recently honored with the Excellence in Technology Award by the International Superyacht Society at their Design & Leadership Awards Gala. This prestigious recognition highlights FarSounder’s dedication to innovation, environmental responsibility, and safety at sea. The company’s cutting-edge technology has had a transformative impact on the maritime industry.
ClassNK has granted approval in principle for a 30,000 m³ LNG carrier with innovative ballast tank design by GTT. This design eliminates filling limits, enhancing operational flexibility in the LNG industry. The AiP demonstrates the feasibility of the concept, showcasing its potential in improving efficiency and safety in LNG transportation.
