QatarEnergy Launches First LNG Carrier 'Rex Tillerson' in Historic Shipbuilding Program

QatarEnergy has inaugurated its first conventional-size LNG vessel, named “Rex Tillerson,” as part of a landmark shipbuilding program.

The vessel, named after the former ExxonMobil Chairman and CEO, was unveiled during a traditional naming ceremony at the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai, China.

“This event embodies our commitment to meet the world’s growing need for cleaner energy and to be part of the global economic development for decades to come,” said His Excellency Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Qatar’s Minister of State for Energy Affairs and CEO of QatarEnergy, who led the ceremony.

“I am deeply honored to have this magnificent ship carry my name. I hope it will have many years of safe service delivering energy the world over,” said Rex Tillerson.

The “Rex Tillerson” is one of 12 conventional-size LNG vessels contracted with the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard. QatarEnergy said the vessels are equipped with cutting-edge maritime technology, ensuring optimal operational efficiency and compliance with stringent environmental regulations. The ships feature state-of-the-art dual-fuel engines, generators, and boilers to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

The launch is part of a massive shipbuilding program by QatarEnergy. In April, the company signed a $6 billion agreement with China State Shipbuilding Corporation for 18 QC-Max size LNG carriers at Hudong-Zhonghu, considered the largest single shipbuilding contract in history. Additionally, QatarEnergy recently signed an agreement for 6 more QC-Max vessels, bringing their total fleet expansion program to 128 vessels, including 24 QC-Max mega vessels with a capacity of 271,000 cubic meters each.