The LR2 tanker Monza, fitted with two 37.5-meter WindWings® developed by BAR Technologies, has been delivered to Union Maritime, marking the third vessel in the company’s newbuild series to adopt wind-assisted propulsion. Together, the vessels form the world’s first dual-fuel LR2 tanker series combining LNG propulsion with WindWings sail technology.
Built by Jiangsu Province, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, and equipped with WindWings manufactured by CMET, the vessel adds to a growing number of large tankers integrating rigid wind propulsion technology.
Its delivery confirms that WindWings installation is moving into repeatable, commercial deployment across a series of vessels.
The milestone comes as debate at the IMO continues over the future of the Net Zero Framework and the role of market-based measures, with competing proposals offering varying levels of ambition and no clear consensus on carbon pricing.
For shipowners, this uncertainty is increasing pressure to adopt solutions that deliver immediate, verifiable emissions reductions without relying on the availability or cost of future fuels.
Wind propulsion is emerging as a critical solution for reducing emissions, offering a proven, fuel-agnostic pathway to meeting FuelEU Maritime and IMO targets now, without reliance on uncertain future fuel supply or infrastructure. By harnessing a free, zero-emission energy source, WindWings deliver measurable efficiency gains, with performance already demonstrated in commercial service on vessels including Pyxis Ocean and Berge Olympus, as well as across Union Maritime’s LR2 newbuild series.
Monza is expected to deliver meaningful reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, consistent with results achieved on earlier WindWings-equipped vessels, supporting compliance with global frameworks including FuelEU Maritime and IMO efficiency targets.
This growing program brings together designers, shipbuilders, class and flag, reflecting increasing industry alignment and a broader shift toward the adoption of wind propulsion on large commercial vessels.
“The successful delivery of Monza demonstrates how wind-assisted propulsion can be integrated efficiently across a series of vessels,” said Zhou Kewei, Deputy General Manager of Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group at the naming ceremony. “Through close collaboration with BAR Technologies, we are accelerating the industrialization of low-carbon ship solutions and supporting the industry’s transition to more sustainable operations.”
“Monza is the third vessel in a series, and that matters,” said John Cooper, CEO of Bar Technologies. “It shows wind-assisted propulsion is no longer a concept or a one-off installation; it is being delivered consistently on commercial ships.”
