Oshima Shipbuilding Receives Approval for Multi-Fuel Bulk Carrier
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to Oshima Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. for its innovative multi-fuel-ready Ultramax bulk carrier design. This approval is a significant step forward as the bulk carrier sector aims for lower and zero-carbon operations, fostering confidence among shipowners, financiers, and charterers in new design solutions. The AiP was officially presented at Oshima Shipbuilding’s headquarters in Japan on January 23, 2026.
Innovative Design for Future Fuels
The approved design encompasses a 64,000 deadweight tonnage (dwt) bulk carrier concept that is engineered to support various future fuel pathways, including ammonia, methanol, and methane (LNG). Additionally, it includes provisions for onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS). This multi-fuel approach allows shipowners to postpone final fuel decisions, thereby protecting asset value and ensuring operational relevance throughout the vessel’s lifespan.
LR conducted an extensive technical review of the design, adhering to 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 towards detailed design and potential construction.
Sung-Gu Park, North East Asia President at Lloyd’s Register, emphasized the maritime industry’s current challenges as operators assess future fuel options, infrastructure development, and changing global regulations. He stated, “Oshima’s approach, embedding flexibility for ammonia, methanol, LNG, and onboard carbon capture from the outset, provides shipowners with a practical and future-resilient solution as they plan their decarbonization strategies.”
Collaboration and Future Prospects
Dr. Junichi Man, Managing Director of Oshima Shipbuilding, expressed pride in receiving the AiP from Lloyd’s Register, highlighting the growing importance of flexibility for shipowners as fuel options diversify and regulations evolve. He noted that the design’s compatibility with ammonia, methanol, LNG, and onboard CO₂ capture systems (OCCS) positions it as a practical and future-ready solution.
This AiP marks a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between LR and Oshima Shipbuilding, reinforcing the importance of early-stage assurance in promoting the adoption of next-generation technologies in the maritime sector. Both organizations are committed to working together to accelerate the safe and scalable implementation of these advancements across the global fleet.
