Malaysia’s energy-related maritime services provider MISC Berhad and South Korean shipbuilder Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) have received Approval in Principle (AiP) from French classification society Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) for the design of the world’s first ammonia-fueled long-range 2 (LR2) tanker powered by proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) technology.
The AiP marks a significant milestone in a strategic joint development project (JDP) involving MISC, SHI, and BV, validating the technical feasibility of the vessel concept and its conformity with international rules, codes, and standards.
The design integrates PEMFC technology developed by South Korea’s Vinssen with an ammonia cracking system (ACS) engineered by Panasia, enabling the vessel to generate full-scale power for propulsion, cargo handling, and onboard energy requirements. Unlike previous applications limited to smaller ships or auxiliary functions, this project demonstrates large-scale commercial viability of ammonia-fueled fuel cell technology.
The tanker is being developed to comply with stringent International Maritime Organization (IMO) decarbonisation regulations while also enhancing operational efficiency.
“Collaboration is the catalyst for maritime transformation. Through this partnership, we are uniting industry leaders in realising a future where innovative technologies drive energy transition and decarbonisation,” said Zahid Osman, President and Group CEO of MISC.
“Our ammonia-fueled LR2 tanker powered by fuel cell represents a true step forward—delivering zero emissions, meeting future regulations, improving operational efficiency, and offering scalability for wider adoption,” added Haeki Jang, Chief Technical Officer at SHI.
“This Approval in Principle is not only a technological milestone but also the power of strong partnerships. Bureau Veritas is proud to support MISC and SHI in advancing ammonia-fueled PEM fuel cell technology — a breakthrough combining innovation, safety, and sustainability,” said Matthieu de Tugny, Executive Vice President, Industrials and Commodities, BV.
Under the JDP, MISC leads vessel operations, commercial feasibility, and market adoption strategies, SHI oversees shipbuilding design and integration, and BV ensures regulatory compliance through risk assessments and classification approval.
The project is expected to set a new benchmark for sustainable shipping, paving the way for zero-emission, scalable, and commercially viable ammonia-fueled tankers.