First Dual-Fuel LNG Tankers with WindWings® Gain SOLAS Approval

BAR Technologies and Union Maritime have received formal approval from the Marshall Islands flag administration for proposals covering bridge visibility, navigational lights, and radar line of sight for two new dual-fuel LNG tankers fitted with WindWings® wind-assisted propulsion systems. The approval followed a review conducted by Lloyd’s Register.

The two LR2 tankers, under construction at Yangzijiang Shipbuilding and scheduled for delivery in early 2026, will be the first dual-fuel LNG vessels with wind-assisted propulsion to obtain SOLAS compliance for bridge visibility and navigational requirements. The development is part of Project AeroPower, a collaborative initiative led by BAR Technologies and Union Maritime with key industry partners to establish a framework for scaling wind-assisted propulsion technology.

Lukasz Brzoska, Head of Ocean-Going Vessels at BAR Technologies, said: “Securing this approval demonstrates that regulatory compliance and WindWings® technology adoption is progressing together at pace. With these welcome confirmations from both flag and class, we are moving rapidly towards the introduction of these newbuilds into service.”

Laurent Cadji, Managing Director at Union Maritime, commented: “Building on the proven success of Brands Hatch, this approval represents a landmark step as we integrate WindWings® with dual-fuel LNG propulsion in our next generation of tankers. Together with our partners, we are proud to be at the forefront of this transition, demonstrating the commercial viability of sustainable solutions that will help our industry meet its decarbonisation goals at scale.”

David Wamsley, Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs for the Republic of the Marshall Islands, stated: “The Republic of the Marshall Islands Maritime Administrator worked closely with Lloyd’s Register in granting SOLAS approval for these proposals on bridge visibility and navigational compliance. Ensuring compliance with SOLAS while also accommodating advanced systems such as WindWings® and dual-fuel LNG reflects our commitment to supporting technologies that enhance safety, efficiency and environmental performance across the global fleet.”

Dr Santiago Suarez de la Fuente, LR Advisory – Ship Performance Manager, said: “Lloyd’s Register is pleased to have supported the approval of these proposals. Ensuring the safe integration of technologies such as dual-fuel LNG and WindWings® into tanker operations is essential as the industry moves to cut emissions while upholding the highest standards of safety and compliance.”

The approval follows operational results from Union Maritime’s tanker Brands Hatch, the first newbuild to be fitted with WindWings®. During its maiden voyage to Europe, the vessel achieved over one-third of propulsion from wind power in favourable conditions, replacing more than 12.8 tonnes of fuel in a single day and reducing around 40 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.