Union Maritime’s Dual-Fuel LNG Tankers With WindWings® Secure SOLAS Approval

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BAR Technologies and Union Maritime have achieved a major regulatory milestone for the adoption of wind-assisted propulsion. Their two new dual-fuel LNG tankers, set for delivery in 2026, have received approval from the Marshall Islands Flag following a review by Lloyd’s Register.

This marks the first time such vessels have secured SOLAS compliance for bridge visibility and navigational safety with integrated WindWings® technology, highlighting the potential of sustainable propulsion in modern shipping.

Approval and Technological Integration

The approval covers bridge visibility, navigational lights, and radar line of sight—critical elements for vessel safety. By gaining regulatory clearance, Union Maritime and BAR Technologies have demonstrated that innovative solutions like WindWings® can be incorporated into complex dual-fuel LNG designs without compromising on safety or international compliance standards. This aligns with the industry’s efforts to balance decarbonisation goals with regulatory obligations.

Proven Performance and Future Impact

The success builds on Union Maritime’s Brands Hatch, the world’s first newbuild tanker equipped with WindWings®, which achieved significant emission reductions during its maiden voyage. Now, by expanding the technology to larger LR2 tankers, Union Maritime and its partners are proving that wind-assisted propulsion can deliver commercial-scale efficiency gains. These advancements support global decarbonisation initiatives while meeting IMO targets, EU ETS, and FuelEU Maritime requirements.

The approval of Union Maritime’s dual-fuel LNG tankers with WindWings® sets a new benchmark for sustainable shipping. It shows that advanced propulsion technologies can work hand-in-hand with international safety standards, paving the way for wider adoption across the industry. By integrating wind-assisted systems with LNG dual-fuel engines, Union Maritime and BAR Technologies are leading the transition toward cleaner, compliant, and commercially viable maritime operations.

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Source: BAR TECHNOLOGIES