US-based Conrad Shipyard recently announced the joint receipt of an Approval in Principle (AiP) with Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for the design of a 12,000-cbm LNG bunkering articulated tug and barge (ATB). The achievement was announced as part of the Korea-U.S. Shipbuilding Partnership Center (KUSPC) opening event attended by government and industry representatives from both the United States and Korea on 23 July. Conrad Shipyard said the AiP reflects the successful development of a vessel concept intended for construction in the United States and builds upon the cooperation framework established between Conrad and Samsung Heavy Industries for LNG bunkering vessel development. “This achievement reflects Conrad’s commitment to combining proven shipbuilding expertise with innovative engineering and strong strategic partnerships,” said Cecil Hernandez, President and CEO of Conrad Shipyard. “By collaborating with global technology leaders while building capability here in the United States, we continue to strengthen American shipbuilding and advance practical solutions for the evolving needs of the maritime industry.”   Photo credit: Conrad Shipyard Published: 28 July, 2026