Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) recently awarded Approval in Principle (AIP) certificates for five vessel projects including a LNG bunkering vessel.
The vessel projects were developed by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co Ltd (Hudong-Zhonghua).
BV and Hudong-Zhonghua entered a Joint Development Project (JDP) to conduct a design approval based on 3D classification for an 18,600 cu m LNG bunkering vessel (Hull No.: H1930A).
This collaborative research aims to establish best practices for 3D classification fidelity and procedure approval, paving the way for more efficient digital design processes in shipbuilding.
The other projects are a “P-Flex” 201,000 cu m Panama-Max LNG Carrier, a 174,000 cu m LNG FSRU, a 150,000 cu m ULEC (Ultra-Large Ethane Carrier) and for the “OCC Ready” design of Hudong-Zhonghua’s 271,000 cu m LNG Carrier.
“The AIPs were granted following a rigorous review process by BV, which focused on classification aspects, including the vessels’ principal dimensions, cargo handling systems, and cargo containment systems, with particular attention to energy efficiency, carbon emissions, and operational adaptability, helping ensure the designs are compliant with international standards and BV’s Rules,” BV added.
Photo credit: Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore
Published: 23 February, 2026
