Wing sail project moves into commercial deployment phase

The latest update from the Oceanbird project confirmed the first fullscale rigid wing has been launched and formally inaugurated in Landskrona, Sweden, with the organiser describing the step as the start of a commercial deployment phase.

The 40-m structure was demonstrated on 25 August 2025 and will remain at Oresund DryDocks for crew training, customer visits and automation optimisation, with a second, identical unit to be installed on the pure car and truck carrier Tirranna at the beginning of 2026.

Sweden ministry of infrastructure and housing minister Andreas Carlson said the inauguration showed leadership in the green industrial transition, adding, “This is truly a milestone. Together, we are advancing towards fossil-free shipping.”

Oceanbird interim chief executive and head of R&D Magnus MackAldener said the team had delivered the first Wing 560 prototype and was now ready to take orders.

He said the wing’s core was constructed of high-strength steel with an aerodynamic surface in glass-fibre composites containing recycled plastic bottles.

Earlier coverage explained the wing sail principle and configuration, describing a composite two-part rigid sail mounted on a 360° pivotable frame.

Unlike a windmill, the wing did not generate electrical energy; it created forward thrust in the manner of an aircraft wing creating lift.