K Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., wind propulsion specialist bound4blue, and Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) have entered into a joint development project (JDP) to develop an LR1 tanker incorporating wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS) technology.

The collaboration centres on the design and optimisation of a 74,000 DWT class LR1 tanker equipped with wind-assisted propulsion technology, with the stated aims of enhancing energy efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring compliance with international environmental regulations.

Under the terms of the JDP, each partner takes on a defined role. K Shipbuilding leads vessel design development, covering general arrangement, stability assessments, and integration of WAPS foundations and related systems. Bound4blue provides technical expertise in wind propulsion technology, including system integration requirements and performance deliverables. Bureau Veritas conducts design review and verification activities, with an approval in principle (AiP) to be issued upon the project’s completion.

The project also encompasses a technical evaluation covering vessel stability, structural integrity, system integration, and operational safety.

Tae-Hyun Koh, chief technology officer at K Shipbuilding, stated: "As demand for sustainable shipping solutions continues to grow, this JDP will further strengthen our capabilities in eco-friendly ship technology development and enhance our competitiveness in the global LR1 tanker market."

Daniel Mann, chief commercial officer of bound4blue, commented: "Tankers are one of the segments where wind propulsion can make a very practical difference, but every project needs to start with the right technical foundation. This JDP is an important step because it brings vessel design, class review, and our experience with eSAIL integration together from the beginning. We are delighted to work with K Shipbuilding and Bureau Veritas to assess the full picture: stability, structure, safety, integration, and performance, while helping show how wind can deliver direct thrust for future-ready tanker designs."

Alex Gregg-Smith, president of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, remarked: "This joint development project reflects the strong partnership between K Shipbuilding, bound4blue, and Bureau Veritas, as well as our shared commitment to developing innovative and environmentally friendly vessel designs. Through this collaboration, we aim to support the delivery of a highly efficient LR1 tanker that meets future market expectations. We look forward to continuing our collaboration to advance next-generation tanker solutions for the global maritime industry."

According to the partners, the project is intended to validate the technical feasibility and performance of the WAPS-equipped design while reinforcing its commercial attractiveness.