GTT has been selected by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, on behalf of ship-owner BW LNG, for the tank design of the world’s first large-scale LNG carriers featuring a three-cargo-tank configuration.
The new design will equip four LNG carriers: two vessels ordered in November 2025 and two additional units ordered in May 2026. Deliveries are scheduled from the fourth quarter of 2028. All four vessels will be fitted with GTT’s Mark III Flex membrane containment system, a proven technology designed to provide a high level of safety and structural integrity.
A simplified architecture with increased cargo capacity
The new concept is based on a three-tank architecture, compared with the conventional four-tank configuration used on standard 174,000 m³ LNG carriers. Developed through close cooperation between GTT, the shipyard and BW LNG, the design enables a significant increase in tank length, up to 55%, while raising total cargo capacity to 177,000 m³.
This represents an additional cargo capacity of up to 3,000 m³, while maintaining the same principal vessel dimensions. The future LNG carriers will therefore retain the same terminal compatibility, as well as the same loading and discharge parameters as conventional vessels.
Enhanced operational and environmental performance
Beyond additional capacity, the three-tank design is intended to improve overall vessel performance. By optimising the ratio between LNG cargo volume and insulation surface area, the concept enhances thermal efficiency and reduces the LNG boil-off gas rate.
The guaranteed boil-off rate will be 0.08% per day. Combined with enhanced cargo handling and reliquefaction capabilities, this performance is expected to improve cargo utilisation, reduce unit freight costs and contribute to lower emissions.
The vessels will also benefit from local membrane reinforcements, enabling them to load any cargo parcel size and offering full flexibility to cargo owners and charterers.
A strong example of French maritime innovation
This announcement highlights the role of technological innovation in the evolution of LNG transport. It also demonstrates the ability of industrial players to work closely with shipyards and ship-owners to develop solutions addressing the changing requirements of the global LNG shipping market: operational efficiency, safety, flexibility and reduced environmental impact.
For GTT, this project represents a significant step forward in next-generation LNG carrier design. It confirms the group’s position as the leading expert in cryogenic membrane containment systems and underlines the contribution of French companies to the technological transformation of the maritime sector.
