MISC & Samsung Heavy Industries: AiP for cracking-based, ammonia-fueled tanker design

Click to learn more. MISC’s ammonia-fueled tanker will be powered by proton exchange membrane fuel cell technology, utilizing cracked ammonia fuel. Source: MISC.

MISC Berhad (MISC) and Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) have been awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) by classification society Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore for their design of an ammonia-fueled LR2 tanker powered by Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) technology.

The AiP award is part of a strategic Joint Development Project among MISC, SHI, and BV. The new design integrates PEMFC technology developed by Vinssen and an Ammonia Cracking System (ACS) developed by Panasia Co. Ltd. The design will enable full-scale power for vessel propulsion, cargo handling, and onboard energy requirements. The design, which is compliant to stringent IMO regulations (including evolving environmental regulations and carbon taxation), has other key advantages including zero direct emissions, operational efficiency and scalability.

In the collaboration, MISC, is the ship owner and operator, leads vessel operations, commercial feasibility studies, and market adoption strategies. Samsung Heavy Industries is responsible for vessel design, system integration and engineering. As third partner, Bureau Veritas oversees regulatory compliance, risk assessment and granting the AiP following set assessments. The AiP is proof that the concept is technically feasible and compliant with industry codes and standards.

Together with SHI and BV, we are advancing a solution that will set a new standard for sustainable shipping and inspire greater industry-wide adoption of innovative solutions that will help the maritime industry meet its net-zero ambitions.

Zahid Osman, President and Group CEO of MISC, in his organisation’s official press release, 24 September 2025

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. This innovation shows Samsung Heavy Industries’ strong commitment to sustainable growth and advanced technology. I would also like to thank the classification society and MISC for their valuable support and close cooperation.

Haeki Jang, CTO Samsung Heavy Industries, in MISC’s official press release, 24 September 2025