Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) and Kongsberg Maritime (KM) have agreed to enter into a Joint Development Project Agreement (JDA) to develop a design a for next-generation 174,000 dwt LNG Carrier with advanced digital technology, aiming to improve safety and efficiency through use of autonomous, remote, and low emission technology.
The project will focus on development of increased safety and efficiency against a traditional design and to meet the transition to net zero emission on the journey towards autonomous large scale LNG carriers. SHI’s role will be system integrator with overall design responsibility, while KM will be responsible for the integrated solution designs as a strategic partner.
Lisa Edvardsen Haugan, KM President said: “We are pleased to announce our Joint Development Project Agreement to develop the next generation LNG Carrier with advanced digital technology, as we take a significant step towards the future of maritime transportation. Through the integration of autonomous, remote and eco-friendly technology, we aim to enhance safety and efficiency, setting new standards for the industry. This project represents our commitment to driving innovation in the maritime sector, and we look forward to collaboration with our partners to deliver a sustainable and prosperous future.”
SHI CTO Haeki Jang added: “The autonomous LNG carrier we are developing in partnership will reduce operational risk and cost for our customers’ fleets, and as the shipbuilding and shipping industries become increasingly digitise, we are committed to continuing to develop cutting-edge digital technology for ship applications.”
In 2022 SHI completed a successful demonstration of its autonomous navigation technology using a 9,000 ton ship, and has been developing cybersecurity solutions for autonomous ships using Blockchain technology, introducing innovative autonomous operation technology.
