The delivery of the LR2 tanker Monza marks the third vessel in Union Maritime’s newbuild series equipped with BAR Technologies’ WindWings sail system. For shipowners weighing future fuel costs and tightening emissions rules, wind-assisted propulsion is gaining traction as a practical option that can be deployed immediately across commercial fleets.
As debate continues at the International Maritime Organization over carbon pricing and the structure of future emissions rules, shipowners are securing compliance pathways that can deliver measurable fuel savings today.
That pressure is driving increased interest in wind-assisted propulsion systems, particularly among operators seeking technologies that can work alongside existing and future fuel strategies. The latest example comes with the delivery of Monza, an LR2 tanker built by Yangzijiang Shipbuilding for Union Maritime and fitted with two 37.5-metre WindWings developed by BAR Technologies.
The vessel is the third in Union Maritime’s dual-fuelled LR2 tanker series combining LNG propulsion with rigid sail technology. According to the companies involved, the programme demonstrates that wind-assisted propulsion is entering repeat commercial deployment rather than remaining limited to pilot installations.
The WindWings system operates through a fully automated rigid wing design intended to optimise performance under varying wind conditions without additional energy input. BAR Technologies said the technology can deliver measurable reductions in fuel consumption and emissions while preserving flexibility around future fuel choices.
At the naming ceremony, Zhou Kewei, Deputy General Manager of Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group, said, “The successful delivery of Monza demonstrates how wind-assisted propulsion can be integrated efficiently across a series of vessels. Through close collaboration with BAR Technologies, we are accelerating the industrialisation of low-carbon ship solutions and supporting the industry’s transition to more sustainable operations.”
Steve Windrim, Senior Client Relationship Manager, Account Lead for BAR Technologies, from Lloyd’s Register, added: “The delivery of Monza represents another important milestone in embedding wind-assisted propulsion within mainstream shipbuilding. Through rigorous classification processes and close collaboration with project partners, we are supporting the safe adoption of innovative technologies that will play a critical role in the maritime energy transition.”
Simon Bonnett, Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs, the Republic of the Marshall Islands Maritime Administrator, said: “We are proud to support the deployment of technologies such as WindWings® that contribute to improving vessel efficiency and reducing emissions from international shipping. Monza highlights how innovative design, proven performance, and sound regulatory frameworks can deliver practical, forward-looking solutions while maintaining the highest standards of safety and compliance.”
John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies, said, “Monza is the third vessel in a series, and that matters. It shows wind-assisted propulsion is no longer a concept or a one-off installation; it is being delivered consistently on commercial ships. ce, and sound regulatory frameworks can deliver practical, forward-looking solutions while maintaining the highest standards of safety and compliance.”
