Korean Register (KR), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI), BAR Technologies and the Liberian Registry have joined forces to explore wind-assisted propulsion for a 174K LNG carrier.
The partners signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok. The project will assess the technical feasibility and safety of installing BAR Technologies’ WindWings on the LNG carrier design.
Forward accommodation creates space for WindWings
The project will focus on a 174K LNG carrier developed by HD HHI with its accommodation block positioned towards the bow.
This arrangement creates additional space on the upper deck, providing an opportunity to install the WindWings system.
Developed by BAR Technologies, WindWings are large rigid sails that use wind to provide supplementary propulsion. The technology is designed to reduce reliance on a vessel’s main propulsion system, lowering fuel consumption and emissions.
HD HHI will lead the vessel’s basic design and design review. BAR Technologies will provide technical information covering the WindWings arrangement, structural strength and operation, as well as expected fuel savings.
KR and Liberian Registry to assess safety
KR and the Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR) will assess the safety and technical suitability of the design.
The review will consider applicable classification rules and international requirements. Based on the results, KR will also consider granting Approval in Principle (AiP) for the design.
The project therefore remains at the development and assessment stage, with no AiP announced yet.
WindWings target LNG carrier market
BAR Technologies is now looking to extend the use of WindWings into the gas carrier sector.
The company said the technology is already deployed across 10 bulkers and tankers, with 23 WindWings installed across those vessels.
According to BAR Technologies, the installations are collectively saving approximately 100 tonnes of CO₂ per day.
“We look forward to extending the application of WindWings to next-generation gas carriers,” said John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies.
The partners said the project could support the future commercial application of wind-assisted propulsion technology on LNG carriers.
