Lloyd’s Register Grants Approval in Principle to Oshima Shipbuilding for Innovative Bulk Carrier Design
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) to Oshima Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. for its groundbreaking multi-fuel-ready Ultramax bulk carrier design. This significant milestone was officially announced on January 23, 2026, during a presentation at Oshima Shipbuilding’s headquarters in Japan. The AiP pertains to a 64,000 deadweight ton (dwt) bulk carrier concept that is engineered to accommodate various future fuel pathways, including ammonia, methanol, and methane (LNG). Additionally, the design includes provisions for onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS), marking a pivotal step towards sustainable shipping practices.
The multi-fuel-ready approach adopted by Oshima allows shipowners to postpone final decisions regarding fuel types, thereby preserving asset value and ensuring operational relevance throughout the vessel’s lifespan. This flexibility is crucial as the maritime industry faces uncertainties related to fuel options and regulatory frameworks.
Comprehensive Technical Review Ensures Safety and Feasibility
Lloyd’s Register conducted an extensive technical review of Oshima’s design in line with its ShipRight Risk Based Certification framework. This thorough assessment evaluated the safety, feasibility, and integration of the proposed fuel and carbon capture systems. The independent assurance provided by LR confirms that the concept is ready to advance toward detailed design and potential construction.
Sung-Gu Park, North East Asia President at Lloyd’s Register, emphasized the importance of this approval in the context of the maritime industry’s evolving landscape. He stated, “The maritime industry is navigating a period of profound uncertainty as operators evaluate future fuel pathways, infrastructure development, and evolving global regulatory expectations.” Park highlighted that Oshima’s design, which incorporates flexibility for various fuel types and onboard carbon capture from the outset, offers shipowners a practical solution as they strategize for decarbonization.
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Dr. Junichi Man, Managing Director of Oshima Shipbuilding, expressed gratitude for the approval, noting the collaborative effort between Oshima’s engineering team and LR’s experts. He remarked, “This AiP was made possible through close collaboration… whose technical insights and rigorous risk-based assessment greatly enhanced the concept.” The approval not only reinforces the longstanding partnership between LR and Oshima Shipbuilding but also underscores the critical role of early-stage assurance in promoting the adoption of next-generation technologies in the maritime sector.
As the industry continues to evolve, the AiP for Oshima’s multi-fuel-ready Ultramax bulk carrier stands as a testament to innovation and adaptability in maritime design, paving the way for a more sustainable future in shipping.
