MOL to Build Japan’s First LNG-Powered Tug

REUTERS/Stringer/File Photo

Japanese shipping company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines announced it plans to build the first LNG-powered tugboat in Japan.

The new tug will be built at Kanagawa Dockyard in Kobe with LNG dual fuel engines supplied by Yanmar Co.

The company says the tugboat will be deployed in Osaka Bay beginning in April 2019, providing escort to large-scale freighters in Osaka Bay and the Sea Inland Sea.

The vessel will be equipped with two high-performance dual fuel engines offering high-speed operation and high environmental performance. The tug will comply with the IGF code, provides mandatory provisions for the arrangement, installation, control and monitoring of machinery, equipment and systems using low flashpoint fuels, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG).

MOL notes that tugboat will also help with the development of an LNG supply and bunkering system in Osaka Bay. LNG fuel for the vessel will be supplied by Osaka Gas. Nihon Tug-Boat Co. will be operator.

MOL is building the vessel as part of its MOL Smart Ship research and development project.