Lloyd’s Register (LR) has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for the design of a 174,000m³ LNG carrier equipped with Wind Challenger, an innovative wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS) developed by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL).
The AiP was formally awarded during a ceremony at Gastech 2025.
While LNG carriers already operate with comparatively lower carbon emissions than conventional oil-fuelled ships, the integration of the Wind Challenger demonstrates the potential to further reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by harnessing renewable wind energy.
SHI led the vessel’s design, while LR carried out the independent design review in accordance with its rules and regulations. The Liberian International Ship and Corporate Registry (LISCR), acting as the flag administration, has supported the project throughout, ensuring regulatory compliance. Together, the partners have proven the feasibility, safety and performance of integrating a large-scale WAPS on an LNG carrier, paving the way for future adoption across the sector.
Panos Mitrou, LR's Global Gas Segment Director, said: “Wind-assisted propulsion technologies are emerging as an important part of the industry’s journey to decarbonisation. By working closely with our project partners, LR is proud to support the safe and effective integration of the Wind Challenger onto a large LNG carrier design.”
Yoshihiko Sugimoto, Deputy Chief Technical Officer of MOL, said: “With the valued collaboration of Lloyd’s Register and the Republic of Liberia, we are delighted to receive this AiP for SHI’s next-generation LNG carrier design featuring MOL’s Wind Challenger technology. This milestone highlights our unwavering commitment to leading the decarbonisation of the maritime industry and accelerating progress toward our medium- to long-term target of achieving net zero GHG emissions by 2050.”
