It’s possible that I shall make an ass of myself. But in that case one can always get out of it with a little dialectic. I have, of course, so worded my proposition as to be right either way (K.Marx, Letter to F.Engels on the Indian Mutiny)
Wednesday, March 05, 2025
BOYS AND THEIR TOYS
Indo-Pacific Command Gets AI Tools for Wargaming and Operational Planning
The Pentagon's "startup" program, the Defense Innovation Unit, has awarded a contract to a San Francisco tech company to turn modern AI into useful military planning and wargaming tools, which could help theater-level commanders decide how to deploy warships, aircraft and troops. If operationalized, the "Thunderforge" software initiative could have a profound effect on how the Navy and Marine Corps fight.
According to Breaking Defense, the biggest operational advantage may be surprisingly mundane: collating and analyzing all the data needed to plan the logistical details of a military operation, which can take hundreds of hours of work using dated Pentagon computing systems. This would free up staff officers for more strategically-important tasks.
The Thunderforge system draws on AI agents developed by Scale AI, along with Anduril's Lattice platform and Microsoft's large language model (LLM) products. The developers emphasized that the agents will always operate under human oversight.
"Today’s military planning processes rely on decades-old technology and methodologies, creating a fundamental mismatch between the speed of modern warfare and our ability to respond," said Bryce Goodman, DIU Thunderforge Program Lead and contractor. "Thunderforge brings AI-powered analysis and automation to operational and strategic planning, allowing decision-makers to operate at the pace required for emerging conflicts."
The system will be deployed first with Indo-Pacific Command and European Command, the two regions with the most at stake in a high-end fight. Adm. Sam Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and a proponent of unmanned systems, commended DIU for its work to "iteratively develop, test, and ultimately field emerging technologies at speed and scale." Maj. Gen. Peter Andrysiak, chief of staff at U.S. European Command, said that data-driven decisionmaking is more important than ever, and welcomed the advent of AI tools for higher efficiency.
"We will lead the Joint Force in integrating AI into operational decision-making. DIU’s enhanced speed will provide our nation’s military leaders with the greatest technological advantage," said Alexandr Wang, Founder and CEO of Scale AI.
Keel Laying Ceremony Conducted for Fifth, Final U.S. Training Ship
Work officially began with the next milestone on the fifth and final vessel in the Maritime Administration’s program to provide state-of-the-art training ships to the state-run maritime academies. The grand block for the fifth vessel, which has been assigned to the California State University Maritime Academy, was placed into the dry dock to begin assembly of the ship.
The orders for the vessels began in 2020 using the Vessel Construction Manager acquisition model where MARAD retained TOTE Services to manage the construction of the vessels and Philly Shipyard (now Hanwha Philly Shipyard) received the orders. The fifth vessel was added to the contract in April 2022. Philly Shipyard at the time said the fifth vessel was valued at approximately $300 million, bringing the total order intake under the contract for the five-ship program would be approximately $1.5 billion.
"California State University Maritime Academy is honored to be part of a distinguished fleet of purpose-built training ships, each designed to meet the evolving needs of America's maritime education while also providing the U.S. with ships that can support disaster response and other critical national needs," said Vice Admiral (Ret.) Michael J. Dumont, Interim President of Cal Maritime. "This vessel stands as a testament to innovation, resilience, and the nation's unwavering commitment to preparing the next generation of mariners. It will be proudly operated by the crew, cadets, and faculty of the only state maritime academy on the West Coast."
The program is known as the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV). The ships were designed to provide a modern training facility replacing outdated vessels used for the training programs. The training facilities include classrooms and a fully equipped bridge as well as a modern diesel power plant versus the steam plants that many of the previous training ships employed. The vessels are also able to handle a container, have RoRo capabilities, and can also be used for disaster relief.
Hanwha, which acquired the shipyard at the end of 2024 and looks to expand its U.S. government work highlights the speed of the construction program. They note that all five vessels’ keels were laid over the past 39 months. TOTE highlights that it is a demonstration of the efficiency of the contracting model.
Each of the vessels is 525 feet (160 meters) in length and is designed with a range of over 10,000 miles at 18 knots. They accommodate 600 students and teachers and can accommodate up to 1,000 people on their humanitarian missions. The vessels also have a full hospital and helipad to support the humanitarian deployments.
The first and second NSMVs, Empire State and Patriot State, were delivered in September 2023 and 2024. Both have now undertaken their first training voyages as they settle in at SUNY Maritime College in New York and Massachusetts Maritime Academy.
The three remaining vessels are currently in various stages of construction at Hanwha Philly Shipyard. The State of Maine is in the final stages of outfitting and will be delivered later this year for the Maine Maritime Academy. The fourth vessel, Lone Star State, completed block assembly in October 2024 will be at Texas A&M Maritime Academy and the California vessel, Golden State, is tentatively scheduled for delivery in late 2026.
VIKAND Strengthens Support for Mercy Ships with Crew Medical Reviews
VIKAND, a global leader in maritime healthcare solutions, is pleased to announce its support for Mercy Ships, a renowned international non-governmental organisation operating hospital ships that provide free, lifesaving surgeries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
VIKAND’s expertise will enhance the Mercy Ships volunteer crew onboarding process by delivering its Pre-Employment Medical Examination (PEME) review services and assisting with vaccination requirements, reducing risk and enhancing regulatory compliance.
By engaging VIKAND, Mercy Ships will streamline its application process, allowing internal resources to be allocated elsewhere to support its life-changing work, while also enhancing healthcare operations and strengthening data security.
Mercy Ships relies on a dedicated volunteer workforce representing over 60 nationalities to staff its hospital ships, the Africa Mercy ® and the Global Mercy™. Some volunteer for a few weeks at a time and others for months or even years meaning that over 200 crew members can be rotating through these vessels each month. Ensuring their medical fitness is a vital step in enabling the organisation’s mission to deliver free health care to some of the poorest countries in the world.
VIKAND has previously supported Mercy Ships by providing its industry-leading medical Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to assist with their onboard crew clinics, which provides care to the volunteer crew. This marks the beginning of a further collaboration, expanding VIKAND’s role in supporting Mercy Ships.
“Having served with Mercy Ships for over 21 years both at sea and ashore, I am excited to have our teams at VIKAND supporting their volunteer crew onboarding process with PEME review solutions,” commented Russ Holmes, Vice President of Key PartnerSHIPS at VIKAND. “This support will allow Mercy Ships to reduce risk, provide a seamless application process for their volunteer crew, and allow them to allocate resources elsewhere that otherwise managed this process previously.”
Mercy Ships has long been respected in the maritime industry, serving as the charity of choice for CLIA, Seatrade, MSC, and the MSC Foundation. This collaboration underscores the commitment of Mercy Ships to optimising its volunteer experience while upholding the highest medical and operational standards.
Mercy Ships Organizational Project Manager Chantal Ilae added: “We are delighted to have the support of VIKAND in strengthening our medical review and vaccination verification process. Their expertise will not only ensure a smoother experience for volunteer crew members but also reinforce our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical care, data security, and compliance. This collaboration allows us to focus more of our resources on delivering free healthcare to those who are in desperate need.”
The products and services herein described in this press release are not endorsed by The Maritime Executive.
AVOIDING TARIFFS
USA Big Mountain Paper Inc. Joins JAXPORT’s Foreign Trade Zone
USA Big Mountain Paper Inc, a manufacturer and distributor of environmentally friendly personal care products, chose Jacksonville for its first North American facility in 2022 based on the city's proximity to sustainable raw materials and the port's globa
The Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) announced today that USA Big Mountain Paper Inc. has joined Northeast Florida’s U.S. Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) No. 64 in Jacksonville, Florida.
An FTZ is a federally designated area providing cost-saving options for importers. No. 64 is Florida’s largest FTZ by land area, covering more than 5,000 square miles throughout ten counties in Northeast Florida.
USA Big Mountain Paper Inc. manufactures and distributes environmentally friendly medical products, including bed pads and adult diapers, from its 157,355-square-foot facility near JAXPORT. Through its activation in the FTZ, the company’s warehouse is eligible for FTZ benefits, including the ability to defer, reduce, or eliminate U.S. Customs duties on raw materials imported into the U.S.
“Northeast Florida’s Foreign Trade Zone provides cost advantages for companies to grow their business in Northeast Florida,” said JAXPORT Chief Commercial Officer Robert Peek. “The region’s additional advantages, including fast access to the growing Southeast region and outstanding highway and rail connections, make us an attractive option for businesses of all sizes to establish or grow their operations here, supporting jobs and economic development throughout our region and state.”
Foreign Trade Zones are areas considered outside of U.S. Customs territory for duty purposes. Administered under the supervision of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), FTZ No. 64 operates under the Alternative Site Framework (ASF), which allows warehouses, distribution centers and manufacturers within the service area to utilize FTZ benefits while operating in their existing facilities. For example, an FTZ can be as small as a single room within a building or as large as a warehouse or entire manufacturing plant.
The zone encompasses ten counties in Northeast Florida: Eastern Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Clay, Columbia, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam and St. Johns counties. Any company within this service area that wants to take advantage of FTZ benefits must apply through JAXPORT and receive approval from the federal FTZ Board. The entire application and approval process typically takes less than 60 days.
The products and services herein described in this press release are not endorsed by The Maritime Executive.
Liner SS United States Completes “Last Voyage,” Arriving in Mobile
Liner United States completed the tow from Philadelphia to Mobile in 12 days (SS United States Conservancy)
The famed liner ss United States made an earlier than anticipated arrival in Mobile, Alabama after completing the 12-day tow from Philadelphia. The ship was maneuvered to a berth at the Modern American Recycling Services (MARS) facility in Mobile for the next phase of the effort to convert her into the world’s largest manmade artificial reef.
“In the spirit of her record-breaking history, America’s flagship concluded her journey from Philadelphia to Mobile faster than anticipated,” said Susan Gibbs, President of the SS United States Conservancy. “As she moved through the waves for the first time in 28 years, countless onlookers and admirers along the country’s eastern seaboard were inspired by her majesty and beauty.”
Docked in Mobile to be stripped for the reefing (SS United States Conservancy - Southeast Chapter
Captain Mike Vinik controlling the tug towing the 990-foot liner had previously reported they were making better than anticipated speeds during the approximately 1,800-mile trip. Other than the initial bad weather near Virginia, it was a calm trip and Vinik maneuvered the liner inside the Gulf Stream to reduce resistance.
The coast-hugging route made for memorable images as the vessel traveled along Florida last week. Spectators gathered at multiple places to view the ship as she passed. However, the most spectacular image came as the cruise ship Utopia of the Seas, one of the largest cruise ships in the world, altered course for a rendezvous with the liner. The 236,473 gross ton cruise ship, which is 1,188 feet in length dwarfed the 53,329 gross ton liner.
World's fastest liner passenger one of the world's largest cruise ships (SS United States Conservancy - Southeast Chapter)
The United States arrived overnight between Sunday and Monday, March 3, about two miles off the coast of Mobile, and waited for daylight, which the US Coast Guard required for the dead ship tow. She entered Mobile Bay, traveled toward the yard at midday, and was pivoted into her final position with the aid of local tugs.
The remediation team was reported to be at the ready to continue the efforts to prepare the ship. Removing the remaining fuel and cleaning her tanks is a priority. Externally the loose paint needs to be removed and other loose materials. The funnels, radar mast, and cargo kingposts are to be removed along with the windows and portholes. On the interior, all the contaminants need to be removed before final preparation for the reefing to the east near Destin, Florida.
Estimates have been that it will take up to about a year to make the preparations to reef the hull of the liner.
All American Marine Delivers Research Vessel to Cal Poly Humboldt
All American Marine (AAM) has successfully delivered a 78’ x 26.7’ semi-displacement aluminum catamaran to Cal Poly Humboldt. This cutting-edge research vessel will serve as a state-of-the-art scientific exploration platform and support faculty research along the Northern California and Oregon coasts.
Designed by Nic de Waal of Teknicraft Design, the RV North Wind builds on the proven success of similar research vessels, including the R/V Shackleford and the University of Hawaii’s R/V Imua. Constructed to US Coast Guard Subchapter T standards, it is optimized for near-coastal and offshore operations, supporting Cal Poly Humboldt’s research initiatives in oceanography, marine ecosystems, and the emerging offshore wind industry. Powered by twin MAN D2862LE43B EPA Tier 4 engines with diesel particulate filters (DPF), the vessel meets California’s stringent environmental standards while delivering exceptional performance. The vessel is capable of fully laden cruising at speeds exceeding 28 knots at 80% engine load.
Outfitted with a Kongsberg ADCP electronics suite, a fixed WASSP multibeam system, and Okeanus deck handling equipment, the RV North Wind provides advanced capabilities for oceanographic research. Onboard, researchers benefit from state-of-the-art wet and dry labs, a computer lab, industry-leading electronics, comfortable live-aboard quarters, and a full suite of oceanographic equipment. Designed with extended missions in mind, it features comfortable accommodations for 14 live-aboard researchers, including full bunks, a spacious bathroom with a shower, and onboard laundry facilities. A state-of-the-art galley and dedicated common areas offer space for collaboration and expanded opportunities for daytrips. This vessel will provide Cal Poly Humboldt researchers, students, and others with a pioneering platform, allowing them to access and study a wide array of marine environments. The knowledge gained from research missions on this vessel will directly support managing and conserving California’s marine resources. These amenities, combined with the vessel’s fuel-efficient propulsion system and advanced research equipment, make it an optimal platform for multi-day and offshore scientific operations. The vessel also accommodates up to 40 daytime passengers, supporting a range of mission types.
State-of-the-art lab and work spaces onboard the RV North Wind
“This vessel is the centerpiece of our academic fleet and will support marine research and teaching efforts for decades to come,” said Eric Riggs, Dean of the College of Natural Resources & Sciences at Cal Poly Humboldt. “All American Marine has delivered a world-class vessel tailored to our needs, ensuring our students and researchers have access to cutting-edge technology and real-world experience.”
Featuring Teknicraft’s signature hydrofoil-assisted hull design, the vessel minimizes drag, enhances fuel economy, and ensures a smoother ride in rough seas. Its Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)-modeled hull shape reduces wake energy and optimizes efficiency—critical for long-duration research missions.
“This vessel marks a new era of ocean conservation and research capabilities,” said Ron Wille, President & COO of All American Marine. “We are proud to have delivered another multi-mission research vessel that will drive critical offshore research, environmental monitoring, and support for the education community on the West Coast.”
Now fully operational, Cal Poly Humboldt’s newest research vessel is set to make a lasting impact on marine science, coastal conservation, and sustainable ocean resource management—furthering the University’s mission of providing hands-on experience for students to inspire the next generation of scientists.
The products and services herein described in this press release are not endorsed by The Maritime Executive.
CMB.TECH Expands Bulker Position Paying Fredriksen $1.2B for Golden Ocean
The company owns 30 bulkers that transport coal, iron ore, grain, and minor bulks.
Golden Ocean took delivery on the last of 10 new vessels in 2024 bringing its fleet to 91 ships currently (Golden Ocean)
In a surprise move that was also seen as a vote of confidence for the lagging dry bulk sector, the Saverys family announced they are paying nearly $1.2 billion to become investors in Golden Ocean. The company describes itself as one of the world’s leading dry bulk shipping companies currently with a fleet of 91 vessels.
The Saverys’ company CMB.TECH continues its efforts at consolidating the shipping industry after acquiring Euronav and converting it to the tanker operating company under its umbrella. The company currently has more than 150 seagoing vessels with operations in crude oil, dry bulk, containers, chemicals, offshore wind, and workboats.
Under the terms of the agreement, CMB.TECH is acquiring a 40 percent stake in Golden Ocean (more than 81 million shares) at a price of $14.49 per share. They represent renown investor John Fredriksen’s entire stake in the company, but CMB.TECH reports it will not trigger a mandatory takeover bid or similar offer.
According to CMB.TECH, the acquisition is in line with its strategic objective of diversification. It says it intends on becoming a long-term shareholder and investing in a modern dry bulk fleet. Last year, CEO Alexander Saverys told the investment community that they planned to use the traditional sectors of the shipping world to help fund and drive their push for decarbonization. CMB.TECH is at the forefront of developing ammonia and hydrogen systems for shipping.
"The acquisition of the Golden Ocean shares from Hemen represents a significant milestone in CMB.TECH’s diversification strategy,” said Alexander Saverys, CEO of CMB.TECH while announcing the agreement. “We look forward to engaging with the board, management, and employees of Golden Ocean and to build on Golden Ocean’s and Mr. Fredriksen’s strong legacy to drive long-term growth and innovation.”
For Fredriksen, it ends his long association with the dry bulk sector and Golden Ocean. He made his investment in 2000 and a decade ago merged the company with Knightsbridge Shipping. Golden Ocean continues to grow its position reporting in late 2024 that it had completed the delivery of 10 new 85,000 dwt vessels. They were built in South Korea.
While the dry bulk sector has been under pressure, analysts viewed the acquisition as a sign of confidence in the opportunities. They noted that the Saverys are paying a strong premium to the valuation of Golden Ocean. The stock, which reached a recent high of $15 a share in May 2024 on NASDAQ, has been trading under $10 a share for all of 2025.
CMB.TECH has been active in the dry bulk sector through Bocimar. The company owns 30 bulkers that transport coal, iron ore, grain, and minor bulks.
3D PRINTING
Newport News Shipbuilding “Prints” First Manifold for USS Enterprise
3D printed manifold installed on the futre USS Enterprise aircraft carrier (HII)
Shipbuilding like other major industries continues to explore the use of additive manufacturing technology (commonly known as 3D printing) and how it can aid in construction and repairs. In the latest development, HII is highlighting that its Newport News Shipbuilding yard printed and installed the first-ever manifold using the technology for the soon-to-be-delivered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise.
“What started as a proof of concept quickly turned into a tangible result that is making a meaningful difference to improve efficiencies in shipbuilding,” said Dave Bolcar, NNS vice president of engineering and design. “The benefits of this innovation will extend well beyond Enterprise (CVN 80), as we incorporate our expertise in additive manufacturing into the fundamentals of shipbuilding.”
The valve manifold assembly, a specialized assembly that allows the distribution of a single source of fluid to multiple points on the ship, is installed in a pump room on Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier Enterprise. The assembly is approximately 5 feet long and 1,000 pounds. Newport News collaborated with DM3D Technology to manufacture the manifold body.
According to the shipyard, it is another demonstration of its pursuit of opportunities to support construction using additive manufacturing. Similar manifolds planned for the next carrier in the class, Doris Miller (CVN 81), will also employ additive manufacturing rather than traditional casting methods.
This latest advancement in the development and deployment of additive manufacturing HII reports builds on Newport News’ prior certification and approval as a supplier for additive manufacturing components on Naval Sea Systems (NAVSEA) platforms. To date, the shipyard has created more than 55 additively manufactured parts installed on both new construction vessels and those currently in the fleet, with plans to install more than 200 additional parts this year.
Newport News highlights its growing use of 3D printing technology (HII)
Newport News says the use of certified 3D-printed parts has the potential to accelerate the construction and delivery of vessels to the U.S. Navy. The technology provides the opportunity to reduce lead times and improve manufacturing quality for critical components.
Four years ago, the U.S. Navy moved to accelerate the use of 3D printing after having installed its first-ever 3D part in 2018. First used as a source for critical and obsolete parts, the Navy moved in 2022 to install printers and test them on vessels on deployment. The USS Essex, a Wasp-class Landing Helicopter Dock, was the first to install a printer in July 2022, and as the technology has been proven the Navy is now ready to accept parts using the technology on its most advanced vessels including the newest carriers.
ALT. FUELS
Fortescue Brings Ammonia-Powered PSV to UK Ahead of IMO Meetings
Green Pioneer is currently in Southampton before moving to London for demonstrations (MCA)
With the IMO’s next Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) set to take place in April, Australia’s Fortesce’s marine division, Fortescue Zero, brought its dual-fuel ammonia-powered vessel to London for demonstrations. The company previously showed off the vessel for the first time in Dubai during the UN’s COP 28 in November 2023 and now seeks to highlight ammonia’s potential as the IMO works to set its net-zero policies.
The Singapore-flagged vessel Green Pioneer (3,100 dwt) arrived in the UK on March 1 from Singapore with the company and UK government highlighting it would demonstrate the viability of ammonia as a sustainable marine fuel. Also after being certified in Singapore in the spring of 2024, the vessel will undergo inspections by the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
“The MCA will conduct thorough inspections and checks to ensure the vessel’s safety and operational readiness for its onward journey,” said Lars Lippuner, MCA Director of UK Customer Services. “It has been a pleasure working in collaboration with Fortescue to bring this innovative vessel to Europe, and we are excited that the shift to a more sustainable marine fuel and a world’s first is being showcased here in the UK.”
Fortescue acquired an offshore supply vessel, MMA Leveque, early in 2022 from Australia-based MMA Offshore. Built in 2010 in Indonesia, the vessel was originally outfitted with four diesel-electric Cummins main engines. Two of the four engines were converted to be able to use ammonia or diesel for the demonstrations. The first-ever ammonia bunkering took place in March 2024 in Singapore and then a second in May as it completed testing.
Fortescue Executive Chairman and Founder, Dr. Andrew Forrest, said they brought the vessel to the UK to deliver the simple message and highlight the critical message to embrace real zero fuel standards. He called it an opportunity that cannot be missed urging the IMO to fast-track shipping’s move away from dirty bunker fuels.
The UK’s Maritime Minister Mike Kane called the vessel the type of innovation that will drive decarbonization forward. He highlighted the government’s support and efforts to achieve net-zero goals.
To support Fortescue Green Pioneer’s time in the UK, the vessel and team are reported to have been working closely with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to ensure full compliance with UK regulatory requirements. Port State Control inspections were scheduled for Southampton after the vessel’s arrival. It will then travel to West India Dock in London to showcase its technology and capabilities to key maritime stakeholders, partners, and the public.
The MCA notes that it is currently working with other member states at the IMO to further develop the interim guidelines on the use of ammonia as a fuel. The IMO still must review and finalize standards and then move for adoption. It is seen as a critical step as engine manufacturers move into their final stages of testing for ammonia engines and expect to be ready for commercial deliveries in the near future.
CMA CGM Joins Ranks of Methanol Pioneers Putting First Vessel in Service
CMA CGM placed its first methanol-fueled containership in service this week (CMA CGM)
The French shipping group CMA CGM recently took delivery of its first dual-fuel methanol containership. While the group continues significant investments in LNG-fueled newbuilds it also recognized the need for diversified sources during this period of transition in the maritime industry.
The new vessel CMA CGM Iron departed Singapore on March 4 bound for the Khalifa port in the UAE on its first voyage. The vessel is joining the route between Ais and the Middle East Gulf region.
CMA CGM ordered 12 methanol-capable vessels from HD Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries in South Korea in 2023. The order was valued at $2 billion with the series due for delivery in 2025 and 2026. Registered in Malta, CMA CGM is saying the container ship is “a new milestone on its group’s path toward net zero carbon by 2050.”
The naming ceremony for the new ship took place on February 17 in South Korea shortly before her delivery. CMA CGM Iron is 146,000 dwt with a capacity of approximately 13,000 TEU. The vessel measures 1,099 feet (335 meters). The sister ships, which will include CMA CGM Cobalt, Argon, Platinum, Mercury, Helium, Krypton, Thorium, Osmium, Silver, Copper, and Gold will be progressively deployed in 2025 and 2026.
CMA CGM Iron is the first of a new class of a dozen methanol-fueled containerships (CMA CGM)
This new class is the latest step in CMA CGM’s effort with the company reporting it has invested nearly $20 billion to order LNG and methanol-powered ships. In 2024, the Group took delivery of 12 new LNG-fueled vessels and was linked yesterday to a new $2 billion order placed in China for another dozen LNG-fueled vessels. The group says that by 2029 it will have 153 ships capable of using low-carbon energies (biogas, biomethanol, and synthetic fuels) in its fleet. CMA CGM reports a total fleet currently of over 650 vessels with orders of nearly 100 new ships.
“In the future, the diversity of technologies and the availability of greener fuels, such as biomethane or biomethanol, will remain a major challenge for the CMA CGM Group and the industry,” the company said last week in its annual financial results report.
Methanol continues to emerge as a fuel while concerns continue about the supply and the cost of the fuel. One key challenge is that it has a lower energy density than other alternatives. In part, this might account for a slower pace for additional orders for methanol-fueled ships. There are also reports within the industry that shipowners have revised building contracts with Alphaliner saying this week that Wan-Hai has approached shipbuilders in South Korea about possibly switching its order for eight 16,000 TEU ships to LNG engines.
While there were 166 new orders in 2024 according to DNV, no methanol-fueled orders have so far been placed in 2025. This compares with 44 orders in the first two months of this year for LNG-fueled vessels.
Overall, the methanol orderbook grew quickly in the past two years with containerships leading the sector. DNV calculates that there are 25 containerships currently in service able to use methanol which has caught up to the product tanker segment. However, the orderbook shows over 300 methanol ships scheduled by 2030, two-thirds are containerships.
With increasing regulatory pressure and rising fuel costs, the shipping industry must accelerate decarbonization while ensuring operational and economic viability. Energy-efficiency measures can play a crucial role in reducing fuel consumption and facilitating the transition to alternative fuels as they become available. To help shipowners identify the best solutions for their fleet, DNV has published a report offering a comprehensive overview of currently available energy-efficiency measures and technologies.
DNV’s latest report, Energy-efficiency measures and technologies – Key solutions and strategies for Maritime’s decarbonization journey, provides a comprehensive overview of more than 40 energy-efficiency measures, detailing their fuel-saving effects, cost figures, and suitability for specific ship types. It highlights how these measures can help shipowners meet short- and mid-term regulatory requirements, gain a competitive edge, and ensure profitable operations well into the 2030s and 2040s.
Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO at DNV Maritime, said: “The decarbonization of shipping is one of our greatest challenges. While transitioning to carbon-neutral fuels is essential, supply and cost remain key barriers. To accelerate this shift, all possible measures must be explored. Energy-efficiency measures can not only cut emissions in the short term but also support the adoption of alternative fuels by reducing overall fuel demand and operational costs. With many such measures available, our report aims to help stakeholders navigate these choices and identify the best solutions for their fleets.”
In the report, DNV explores a wide range of technical and operational measures, detailing cost considerations, suitability for different ship types, and the challenges of combining multiple solutions effectively. Digitalization also plays an important role, and the report offers insights into how data-driven decision-making can enhance fuel savings, while ensuring cybersecurity remains a priority.
DNV’s report outlines a three-step approach for managing decarbonization risks: defining greenhouse gas (GHG) trajectory and goals, assessing pathways for meeting these goals, and developing a fleet decarbonization strategy and plan. It also explores other solutions such as low-carbon and carbon-neutral fuels, biofuels, onboard carbon capture, fuel cells, and nuclear propulsion, evaluating their benefits, challenges, and emissions reduction potential.
Jason Stefanatos, Global Decarbonization Director at DNV Maritime added: “Energy efficiency is key to reducing emissions and enabling low-carbon fuel adoption. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, improving onboard efficiency reduces emissions in the short term and accelerates low-carbon fuel adoption in the long term. Every percentage of fuel saved, whether conventional or alternative, translates into significant cost savings. Energy efficieny is becoming critical, and the industry must raise awareness, gain knowledge, and plan ahead.”
The products and services herein described in this press release are not endorsed by The Maritime Executive.
Innovations in Maritime Fluid Technology for a Low-Carbon Future
The maritime industry is transforming due to an emphasis on carbon reductions, technological advancement, and stricter regulations. Operators in both coastal and inland waterways now face the challenge of maintaining reliable, compliant operations while adapting to evolving performance standards, and advancements in fluid technology are helping drive this.
Key Trends in Maritime Fluid Technology
It’s no secret that helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions intensity is a primary goal across the shipping industry. This shift toward lower carbon-intensity fuels and higher engine efficiency presents new challenges for lubricants. This is where investments in renewable base stocks and additive technologies come into play.
Traditionally, vegetable-based Environmental Acceptable Lubricants (EALs) have struggled to match the durability and performance of mineral oils. However, newer synthetic EALs, deliver high-performance attributes including oxidation and wear protection, as well as compatibility with modern equipment materials. These advancements ensure that lubricants can meet both regulatory and operational demands.
Environmental Compliance and Fluid Formulation
Regulatory compliance remains a key aspect of maritime operations. The EPA's Vessel General Permit (VGP) standards require operators to use biodegradable lubricants in certain applications, such as propulsion and hydraulic systems. Although conventional mineral oils are less expensive, they fail to meet these compliance standards and pose significant environmental risks in the event of leaks or spills.
To address these needs, there are now new synthetic, renewable EAL formulations on the market that provide both biodegradability and superior performance. For instance, some formulations even meet stringent VGP biodegradability requirements, breaking down by 60% or more within 28 days.
Unlike earlier generations of EALs, which suffered from short lifespans and incompatibility with seals and polymers, these next-generation products offer improved thermal stability, longer service intervals, and reduced equipment wear. Esters, a popular base for some EALs, demonstrate better heat resistance than vegetable oils but can degrade polymer seals in machinery.
By refining plant-derived base stocks to synthetic quality, there are now solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing equipment. This reduces the risk of breakdowns and minimizes lifecycle costs, helping operators achieve their lower carbon goals.
Balancing Cost, Performance, and Compliance
One of the most common concerns raised by operators is the higher upfront cost of EALs compared to traditional lubricants. However, these costs should be weighed against the potential financial impact of environmental incidents. A single spill or leak can lead to cleanup expenses and regulatory fines far exceeding the investment in compliant fluids. By choosing premium EALs, maritime operators can safeguard both their assets and their bottom line.
Those using VGP-approved lubricants have reported longer oil life and reduced maintenance costs, leading to improved return on investment. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the technical service teams of lubricant providers for help – they are often happy to work closely with you to optimize maintenance strategies, including regular fleet surveys and fluid condition monitoring. These proactive measures help prevent equipment failures, ensuring maximum uptime and efficiency.
Additionally, education is key to ensuring the effective adoption of new lubricant technologies. Many lubricant providers offer a range of resources from industry forums and OEM collaboration to training sessions to help you better understand the benefits of lower carbon intensity fluid technologies.
The Future of Marine Fluids
The maritime industry’s future depends on innovation and helping to advance a lower carbon future. Over the next 5 to 10 years, we anticipate continued advancements in renewable base stocks, additive technology, and regulatory compliance standards. We need to be committed to leading this charge by developing products that not only meet but exceed these requirements with the next generation of marine lubricants.
With its combination of synthetic renewable base oils, high performance, and biodegradability, it sets a new standard in the sector. As maritime operators navigate these challenges, they can rely on new, innovative solutions that enhance both environmental stewardship and operational excellence. Staying ahead of regulatory trends and technological advancements can help you achieve long-term success as the world moves to a lower carbon future.
Ronald Boffa is a Lead Inland Marine Specialist at Chevron.
The opinions expressed herein are the author's and not necessarily those of The Maritime Executive.
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