Korean Register (KR), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI), BAR Technologies and Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR) have launched a joint development project to assess WindWings wind-assisted propulsion for a 174,000 m³ LNG carrier.
The four parties signed a memorandum of understanding on 15 September 2026 at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok. The project will examine the technical feasibility, safety and regulatory compliance of integrating the rigid wing sail system into the LNG carrier design.
The assessment will use a 174K LNG carrier design from HD HHI with the accommodation block positioned towards the bow. The arrangement provides additional upper-deck space that could be used to install WindWings.
Developed by BAR Technologies, WindWings consists of large rigid wing sails that use wind to supplement the vessel’s propulsion. The project will assess how the system can be incorporated into the LNG carrier configuration.
HD HHI will be responsible for the vessel’s basic design and design review. BAR Technologies will provide information covering the WindWings arrangement and specifications, structural requirements, operational concepts and projected fuel savings.
KR and LISCR will assess the proposed design against applicable classification rules and international requirements, including its safety and technical suitability. Following the assessment, KR will consider whether to issue an Approval in Principle (AiP).
The project is intended to provide a basis for the potential future commercial application of wind-assisted propulsion technology on LNG carriers.
According to BAR Technologies, WindWings is currently deployed on 10 bulkers and tankers, with 23 units in operation. The company says these installations collectively save about 100 tonnes of CO₂ per day.
