BAR Technologies and Union Maritime have received SOLAS approval from the Marshall Islands Flag for two new dual-fuel LNG tankers. The vessels feature WindWings® wind-assisted propulsion systems. Lloyd’s Register reviewed proposals covering bridge visibility, navigational lights, and radar line of sight.
The tankers, built by Yangzjhiang Shipbuilding and due in early 2026, are the first dual-fuel LNG ships to secure SOLAS approval with wind-assisted propulsion. This shows that efficiency technologies can be integrated into complex newbuilds without compromising safety or regulatory compliance.
The approval follows Project AeroPower, a collaboration between BAR Technologies, Union Maritime, and key stakeholders. The project created the global framework for adopting wind-assisted propulsion at scale.
Lukasz Brzoska, Head of Ocean-Going Vessels at BAR Technologies, said: “Regulatory compliance and WindWings® adoption are moving forward together. We are now closer to introducing these ships into service.”
Laurent Cadji, Managing Director at Union Maritime, added: “This approval is a landmark. It shows that WindWings® with dual-fuel LNG is commercially viable and supports the industry’s decarbonisation goals.”
The approval builds on the success of Brands Hatch, the world’s first tanker fitted with WindWings®. On its maiden voyage, it generated over a third of its propulsion from wind alone. This saved 12.8 tonnes of fuel and avoided 40 tonnes of CO₂ emissions in a single day.
The project demonstrates that dual-fuel LNG and WindWings® can accelerate decarbonisation while meeting international safety standards. BAR Technologies continues to work with shipyards, class societies, and flag administrations to scale proven efficiency technologies across fleets.
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