The vessel has been ordered by Itochu Corporation through its Singapore-based subsidiary Clean Ammonia Bunkering Shipping Pte. Ltd. (CABS) and is under construction at Sasaki Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. in Japan. With a cargo capacity of 5,000 cubic metres, the ship is scheduled for completion and delivery in 2027. It will serve as a specialised platform to supply ammonia as fuel to ocean-going vessels, supporting the establishment of a global ammonia bunkering network.
The Laby® Compressor from Burckhardt Compression will form an essential part of the vessel's fuel transfer system. Its fully hermetic, oil-free design provides complete gas-tight operation, preventing any leakage while handling ammonia safely and reliably. These features make the technology particularly suitable for managing hazardous or corrosive substances during ship-to-ship transfer operations.
This initiative represents an important step in the maritime sector's efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Ammonia is regarded as one of the most promising zero-carbon marine fuels for the future, offering a pathway for the industry to achieve significantly lower environmental impact. The new bunkering vessel will help demonstrate the practical feasibility of ammonia as a scalable fuel option and contribute to the development of supporting infrastructure worldwide.
By participating in this ground-breaking project, Burckhardt Compression reinforces its role as a key technology supplier to the growing field of alternative marine fuels. The company's proven solutions are increasingly sought after by shipyards, owners, and operators working to meet evolving environmental standards and prepare for the next generation of low-emission shipping.
Once operational, the vessel will enable efficient ammonia supply services in strategic ports, facilitating the gradual adoption of ammonia-powered propulsion systems across international fleets. The successful implementation of this specialised ship is expected to encourage further investment in ammonia-related facilities and accelerate the broader transition toward cleaner energy sources in global maritime transport.
The collaboration between Burckhardt Compression, Nissin Gas Engineering, Itochu Corporation, and Sasaki Shipbuilding highlights the combined expertise required to bring innovative decarbonisation projects from concept to reality. As demand for sustainable shipping solutions continues to rise, such initiatives play a vital role in building the technical and operational foundations needed for long-term environmental progress in the sector.
