CMB.TECH Launches First Ammonia-Powered Bulkers with Fortescue | Mariner News

CMB.TECH has commenced service with its first ammonia-powered bulk carriers, including the 210,000 dwt Mineral Europa, chartered to Fortescue. This development marks a significant operational step in proving ammonia as a viable marine fuel for large ocean-going vessels, as the ship embarks on its maiden voyage to Australia.

Alexander Saverys, CEO of CMB.TECH, characterizes the vessels as the beginning of a “propulsion revolution,” demonstrating that substantial ships can effectively operate on ammonia. The Mineral Europa is the first of 12 ammonia-fueled vessels CMB.TECH is chartering to Fortescue, with a larger fleet of 21 such ships expected to enter service by 2029.

The vessel, built by CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding Co., is equipped with a dual-fuel engine developed in partnership with WinGD, capable of running on ammonia or conventional marine fuel. Managed by Anglo-Eastern and owned by Bocimar, CMB.TECH’s dry bulk line, the ship will transport iron ore from Western Australia’s Pilbara region to China and other international markets for Fortescue.

Storage for liquid ammonia is provided in independent tanks on the vessel’s deck, positioned at a safe distance from the sides. CMB.TECH confirms that safety protocols are established, and all crew undergo training before boarding. This operational deployment on a critical high-volume trade route for a major miner like Fortescue establishes a tangible green corridor for heavy bulk trades, potentially accelerating competitive pressure on other operators and ports to develop similar infrastructure and green shipping solutions.