LNG newbuilding boom: BW confirms world-first three-tank carrier order, TMS expands fleet

Part of BW Group, BW LNG confirmed via a social media post that it has ordered two additional LNG carriers at HD Hyundai Samho, with deliveries scheduled for Q2 and Q3 2029.

The South Korean shipbuilder disclosed on 13 May an order for two LNG carriers with similar delivery schedules, valued at approximately US$508M, without naming the buyer.

BW LNG noted that the latest order follows an earlier contract for two LNG carriers signed last November, which are expected to enter the fleet in Q4 2028.

According to the company, the newly ordered vessels will feature an industry-first large-scale three-tank LNG design, offering increased cargo capacity and reduced boil-off while maintaining full operational flexibility.

BW LNG said it has worked with GTT and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries to develop the design, ensuring it meets and exceeds required standards.

The vessels are expected to deliver highly competitive unit freight costs and greater flexibility to meet evolving global LNG market requirements, the owner added.

Based on its website, BW LNG operates a fleet of 34 LNG carriers and floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs).

HD Hyundai has signed contracts for 98 vessels this year, including 16 LNG carriers.

George Economou steps up expansion

Separately, George Economou-led TMS Cardiff Gas has been linked to an order for two LNG carriers at Samsung Heavy Industries.

The shipbuilder disclosed a contract for a pair of LNG carriers valued at around US$505M, with deliveries scheduled through June 2029. It said the counterparty is an unnamed Oceania-based shipping company.

Shipbroking and market sources have linked TMS Cardiff Gas to the deal. The Greek owner appears to be accelerating its gas expansion strategy. Last week, it was linked to an order for two very large gas carriers (VLGCs) at HD Hyundai, while earlier this year it contracted CSSC Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding for up to six 174,000-m³ LNG carriers.

TMS Cardiff Gas is among Greece’s largest gas carrier operators and continues to expand through an active newbuilding programme spanning both LNG and LPG segments.

Samsung Heavy Industries has secured orders for 19 vessels this year, including nine LNG carriers. A company official told South Korean media there is strong momentum in this segment, and the yard has also secured an order for an FSRU.