Lloyd’s Register Approves Innovative Bulk Carrier Design
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to Oshima Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. for its groundbreaking multi-fuel-ready Ultramax bulk carrier design. This approval is a significant step towards enabling the bulk carrier sector to transition to lower and zero-carbon operations, fostering confidence among shipowners, financiers, and charterers in new design solutions. The formal presentation of the AiP took place at Oshima Shipbuilding’s headquarters in Japan on January 23, 2026.
Innovative Design for Future Fuels
The approved design features a 64,000 deadweight tonnage (dwt) bulk carrier concept that is engineered to support multiple future fuel pathways, including ammonia, methanol, and methane (LNG). Additionally, it includes provisions for onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS). This multi-fuel-ready approach allows shipowners to postpone final fuel decisions, thereby preserving asset value and ensuring operational relevance throughout the vessel’s lifespan.
LR conducted a thorough technical review of the design in line with its ShipRight Risk Based Certification framework. This evaluation focused on the safety, feasibility, and integration of the proposed fuel and carbon capture systems. The independent assurance provided by LR confirms that the concept is well-positioned to advance towards detailed design and potential construction.
Sung-Gu Park, North East Asia President at Lloyd’s Register, emphasized the current challenges facing the maritime industry as operators assess future fuel pathways and navigate evolving 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.”
Strengthening Partnerships for Future Readiness
Dr. Junichi Man, Managing Director of Oshima Shipbuilding, expressed pride in receiving the AiP from Lloyd’s Register for their multi-ready vessel concept. He highlighted the growing importance of flexibility for shipowners as fuel options diversify and regulations evolve. “By enabling compatibility with ammonia, methanol, LNG, and onboard CO₂ capture systems, our concept offers a practical and future-ready solution,” he noted.
The successful collaboration between Oshima’s engineering team and LR’s experts was pivotal in achieving this approval. Dr. Man acknowledged the technical insights and rigorous risk-based assessments provided by LR, which significantly enhanced the vessel concept. The AiP not only strengthens the longstanding relationship 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.
