On June 11, a major milestone in green shipping was marked at CSSC’s Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. (SWS): the official naming of BRANDSHATCH, the world’s first wind-assisted Aframax product tanker built for Union Maritime Ltd. (UML).
The vessel is fitted with three WindWings® rigid sails, developed by BAR Technologies and integrated with advanced hydraulic and digital control systems. This marks one of the most significant real-world applications of wind-assisted propulsion in large tankers.
Equipped with three 40+ meter high rigid wing sails, this next-generation vessel merges ancient wind propulsion with cutting-edge technology. Designed with a digital sail control system that adjusts in real-time to optimize performance, BRANDSHATCH can reduce fuel consumption by up to 12% annually, cutting around 5,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year.
This is more than just a single vessel — it's a signal of transformation. From sail integration and mechanical innovation to rapid commissioning (only 42 days from float-out to sea trial), SWS has showcased unmatched efficiency and expertise in sustainable shipbuilding. The ship is now set to enter service on European routes, bringing a new era of low-emission transport to the oil trade.
by Xinde Marine News Chen Yang
The opinions expressed herein are the author's and not necessarily those of The Xinde Marine News.
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