Lloyd’s Register signs MoU to advance wind-assisted MR tanker design in International Shipping News 05/06/2026 Lloyd’s Register (LR) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with K Shipbuilding, bound4blue and the Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR) to jointly develop a 50,000 dwt MR tanker incorporating wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS). The agreement was signed on 4 June during Posidonia in Athens. The project will develop and optimise an MR tanker design with WAPS. The concept will incorporate bound4blue’s eSAIL® technology, which uses suction sail principles to harness wind energy and deliver direct thrust, helping improve efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and support compliance with tightening emissions regulations. Under the agreement, the partners will carry out technical and regulatory evaluation of the design, including assessments against the latest class rules and IMO requirements. LR will provide technical assurance, design appraisal and support the process towards Approval in Principle (AiP), while working closely with LISCR on regulatory alignment. The collaboration is intended to reduce uncertainty around the adoption of WAPS in the tanker market by validating performance, safety and regulatory compliance at an early stage. By bringing together expertise across design, technology, classification and flag, the project establishes a structured pathway for future commercial deployment. Alberto Pérez, Head of Maritime Commercial Markets, Lloyd’s Register: “This agreement reflects LR’s continued focus on enabling maritime decarbonisation through practical, scalable solutions. By supporting the development of next-generation tanker designs, we are helping shipowners and operators navigate the transition to lower-carbon operations while maintaining commercial viability.” Tae-Hyun Koh, Chief Technology Officer, K Shipbuilding, said: “As demand for sustainable shipping solutions continues to grow, this MoU will further