News

The 177,000 m³ three-tank LNGC design combines simplified architecture
with increased cargo capacity and a lower boil-off rate for improved vessel performance.

Paris, 20 May 2026 – GTT announces that it has been selected by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE^[1]), on behalf of the ship-owner BW LNG, for the tank design of the world’s first large-scale LNG^[2] carriers featuring a three-cargo-tank configuration. This new design will equip four new buildings: two vessels already ordered in November 2025^[3] and two additional vessels ordered in May 2026. These four LNG carriers will be fitted with the well-proven^[4] GTT Mark III Flex membrane containment system with enhanced safety and structural integrity and are scheduled for delivery from the fourth quarter of 2028.

These three-tank LNG carriers represent a new-generation vessel concept based on a    proven design. The vessels deliver enhanced cargo efficiency and operational performance, enabling the lowest possible unit freight cost and reduced emissions.

A new-generation three-tank configuration with increased cargo capacity and improved flexibility

This innovative three-tank design is the result of close collaboration between GTT, the shipyard and ship-owner BW LNG, with targeted reinforcements and design enhancements to deliver performance beyond that of a conventional four-tank 174,000 m³ LNG carrier.

The simplified vessel architecture enables a significant increase in tank length of up to 55%, while raising cargo capacity by 3,000 m³ to 177,000 m³.

Similar to the conventional 174,000 m³ LNGC configuration, the vessels will have the same principal dimensions, terminal compatibility, loading and discharge parameters and by means of local membrane reinforcement the vessel can load any cargo parcel size - offering cargo owners full flexibility.

Enhancing performance with lower boil-off rate

Combining technological innovation with enhanced cargo handling and reliquefication capabilities, the three-cargo-tank design improves cargo utilisation and vessel performance. By optimising the ratio of LNG cargo volume to insulation surface area, the design improves thermal efficiency and reduces the LNG boil-off gas rate, guaranteed at 0.08% per day.

François Michel, CEO of GTT, declared: “This project marks a significant step forward in the evolution of LNG carrier design, with major gains in operational efficiency and environmental performance. It demonstrates GTT’s proactive approach in working closely with shipyards and
ship-owners to address the evolving needs of the LNG transport market.”

Yngvil Åsheim, CEO of BW LNG, declared: “BW LNG is proud to pioneer the industry’s first three-tank LNG carrier design across four of our new buildings. Developed in close collaboration with GTT and Hyundai, this innovative proven configuration delivers increased cargo capacity, with greater operational flexibility and enhanced operational performance. This collaboration reflects BW LNG’s commitment to practical innovation and delivering greater value to our clients, while strengthening our ability to support global LNG demand with lower emissions towards a lower-carbon future.” 

HongRyeul Ryu, CTO of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, declared: “This contract marks a meaningful milestone for HD Group in advancing next-generation LNG carrier solutions. Through close collaboration with BW LNG and GTT, the innovative and highly efficient three-tank concept combines operational flexibility and cargo efficiency, while further strengthening our technological leadership in the LNG shipping sector. HD Group remains committed to delivering reliable and sustainable technologies that meet the evolving demands of the global LNG shipping industry.”

Media contact: 
communication@gtt.fr / +33 (0)1 30 23 56 37
Investor relations contact: 
information-financiere@gtt.fr / +33 (0)1 30 23 20 87 / +33 (0)1 30 23 42 64