Bureau Veritas Reviews OCEANICWING’s Seawing Kite System
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) has completed a third-party review of the “Seawing” automated kite system, developed by OCEANICWING S.A.S., a subsidiary of Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) based in France. This review is a significant milestone in the development of the Seawing system, which aims to enhance fuel efficiency in maritime operations through wind-assisted propulsion.
The first phase of the Seawing development program concluded in June 2025. During this phase, OCEANICWING conducted land-based demonstration tests using a 300 m² kite. These tests were designed to evaluate the kite’s tension performance and overall system effectiveness. BV’s assessment confirmed that the methodology used in these trials was appropriate and aligned with the performance objectives outlined by OCEANICWING. The kite demonstrated a theoretical towing force of 25 tons, which is substantial for a system of this nature. BV indicated that increasing the kite’s size to 600 m² could potentially double the towing force to 50 tons, a figure that may be validated through additional testing. Notably, this towing force is comparable to that of a conventional tugboat, underscoring the system’s potential utility in maritime operations.
Next Steps in Seawing Development
Following the successful completion of phase one, the Seawing project has progressed to phase two. This next stage will focus on scaling up the kite size and further validating its operability and safety at the land test site. These preparations are essential for the eventual onboard application of the system. Additionally, offshore demonstration trials are planned for a large bulk carrier operated by “K” LINE. These trials aim to verify the tension performance and reliability of the Seawing system under real-world operating conditions.
The testing program is projected to conclude around 2027, which will pave the way for the practical implementation of the Seawing technology in commercial shipping. Takenori Igarashi, President and CEO of “K” LINE, expressed that the third-party verification by BV enhances confidence in the technical capabilities of the Seawing system. He emphasized that scaling up the kite system could lead to significant fuel savings, aligning with the industry’s broader goals of decarbonization. The ongoing development efforts reflect a commitment to integrating innovative solutions that support sustainable practices in maritime transportation.
