BAR Technologies, a leading company in the field of wind propulsion systems, has announced a major order for its WindWings® technology. This landmark order will see the installation of WindWings® on two new LR2 dual-fuel tankers, marking one of the first large-scale wind propulsion deployments on this critical vessel class.
The decision to equip the new 250-metre-long tankers, Suzuka and Long Beach, with two 37.5m WindWings® each, demonstrates the growing industry momentum behind wind as a core alternative fuel in the maritime decarbonisation transition. This follows the successful integration of WindWings® aboard the UML-operated Brands Hatch, showcasing the practicality and effectiveness of wind propulsion.
The vessels, designed by SDARI and constructed by Xiamen Shipbuilding Industry (XSI), will have steel cutting confirmed for November 2025 and delivery scheduled for Q1 2027. The integration of WindWings® is expected to deliver substantial reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, highlighting the technology’s capability to scale and complement dual-fuel systems in decarbonisation efforts.
John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies, emphasized the significance of this project, stating, “Wind is no longer an experiment or a future option; it’s a proven fuel source that’s ready to deliver real impact today.” The vessels, flagged under the Marshall Islands and classed by Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, will comply with the most rigorous international safety and performance requirements.
Simon Bonnett, Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs for the Republic of the Marshall Islands Maritime Administrator, expressed excitement for the project, stating, “As the world’s leading registry for quality, compliance, and technical support regarding innovative technologies, this decision to flag further highlights UML’s commitment to responsible and innovative fleet development.”
Matthieu de Tugny, Executive Vice President of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, stressed the importance of safety in integrating new technologies on ships, adding, “Bureau Veritas’ classification framework helps ensure that these vessels will meet the highest requirements for structural integrity, safety, and sustainable design, demonstrating that next-generation propulsion systems, including WindWings®, are ready for rigorous global deployment.”
The LR2 deployment is particularly significant as these tankers are widely used for transporting refined petroleum and chemicals globally. Integrating wind propulsion into such a high-utilisation vessel class signals a step change, moving WindWings® from innovation to infrastructure.
Shougang Shi, Sales Director of CM Energy Tech, highlighted the role of advanced manufacturing in scaling wind propulsion, stating, “By combining BAR Technologies’ aerodynamic design expertise with CM Energy Tech’s production capabilities, we are delivering a high-precision, reliable WindWings® system optimized for real-world commercial use.” This partnership ensures the technology can be produced and deployed at scale to meet growing demand.
The decision to install WindWings® on a second, different vessel class, following the strong operational results from Brands Hatch, demonstrates the growing confidence in wind propulsion as a scalable and commercially sound component of future-ready ship design. The two 37.5m WindWings® units are expected to deliver an average of 3 tonnes of daily fuel savings, translating to annual CO₂ reductions of around 2300 tonnes per tanker, equivalent to removing over 500 conventionally powered passenger cars from the road.
These newbuilds are expected to enter service ahead of the IMO’s 2030 emissions reduction targets, offering early compliance benefits and long-term operational efficiencies. This project serves as a testament to the viability and effectiveness of wind propulsion and its potential to revolutionize the shipping industry’s decarbonisation efforts.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.