Mitsubishi Shipbuilding has been contracted by Imabari Shipbuilding to provide the LNG gas fuel supply systems for a series of nine dual-fuel car carriers and three bulkers.
The deal is the latest development in a growing commercial and technical relationship between the two Japanese shipbuilders.
Last week, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding — a wholly owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries — announced it would be providing engineering and design assistance to Nihon Shipyard, a joint venture between Imabari and Japan Marine United.
It is understood that the LNG gas fuel supply system is intended for three capesize bulk carriers contracted at Nihon Shipyard, two of which have been ordered by NYK Line and one by K Line.
The nine 7,000-ceu car carriers have been ordered by K Line and Mitsui OSK Lines and split between Imabari Group shipyards.
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding’s fuel supply set is a modular design that can be installed easily, cutting construction time.
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding is also providing technical assistance to Imabari in the construction of LNG tanks at its Nishi Tadotsu plant.
Mitsubishi and Imabari began their commercial relationship through joint venture company MI LNG, which was established to win LNG carrier contracts.
However, with limited success in the face of competition from China and South Korea, Mitsubishi has opted to focus on providing technical, design and engineering services to other Japanese yards.
Imabari teamed up with Japan Marine United on commercial marketing and ship production through Nihon Shipyard.
