Hanwha Ocean receives order for first LNG tanker in the US in 50 years using "ship-to-ship" technology

The South Korean company Hanwha Ocean successfully conducted a test operation of LNG tankers using the innovative "ship-to-ship" method for transferring liquefied natural gas between vessels at sea. As part of this project, the company also received its first export order for the construction of an LNG tanker in the United States in nearly 50 years.

The contract was signed with Hanwha Ocean's subsidiary, Hanwha Shipping, and the construction will take place at the American shipyard Hanwha Philly Shipyard, which was acquired by the company at the end of 2024. This is the first order for such a specialized vessel for LNG export in the US since the late 1970s.

Project details and significance for the industry

• The cost of one tanker is estimated at 348 billion won (approximately 251 million USD), and the contract includes an option for the creation of a second vessel.
• The tanker will be equipped with a membrane gas storage system from GTT and an energy-efficient MEGI propulsion system.
• The vessel's capacity will be about 174,000 cubic meters of LNG.
• The delivery of the first vessel is planned for the first half of 2028.
• Most of the construction and assembly work will be carried out at Hanwha Ocean's shipyard in Korea, while the American shipyard will ensure certification and compliance with US Coast Guard (USCG) requirements for registration under the US flag.

The importance of this order is not only due to its technological novelty but also its strategic alignment with US policy aimed at revitalizing national shipbuilding and enhancing energy security. Starting in 2029, new regulations require the transportation of exported LNG by American-built vessels and crews of American sailors, creating additional demand for such projects.

Development of the "ship-to-ship" method

The "ship-to-ship" LNG transfer method successfully tested by Hanwha Ocean demonstrates the efficiency and environmental safety of liquefied gas resale and transfer operations. This is an important step in providing flexible solutions for the global energy market.

Future prospects

Collaboration between the Korean company in Koje and the American shipyard in Pennsylvania will enable the establishment of assembly production of LNG tankers with a high level of localization and certification, which will strengthen Hanwha Ocean's presence in the global shipbuilding market.