Compagnie Maritime Nantaise (MN), part of Sogestran, has begun construction of a new hybrid-powered ro-ro vessel combining conventional mechanical propulsion and a wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS), dedicated to transporting cargoes for the space industry.
The propulsion system will combine conventional mechanical propulsion with WAPS, comprising three automated OceanWings rigid sails. This technology was selected for performance, ease of onboard integration, industrial maturity and suitability for the vessel’s operational profile. The reduction of the vessel’s environmental footprint will rely on several complementary measures, including WAPS, an efficient mechanical propulsion system, optimised hull design, advanced weather routing, system automation and compatibility with biofuels.
This new industrial asset is planned strengthen the company’s transport capabilities and support the growth of the European space industry, particularly within the framework of its long-term partnership with Avio. The vessel is expected to be delivered from Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) in time to enter service by 2030.
The vessel was designed by Knud E Hansen and VPLP Design to meet the specific requirements associated with transport of launch vehicles, satellites, related equipment and other sensitive industrial cargoes. Its construction follows the strategic partnership announced in June 2026 between Avio and MN. Building on more than 15 years of collaboration between the two companies in support of the European space industry, the vessel will notably support the increasing delivery rate of Avio’s Vega-C launch vehicles between Europe and the Guiana Space Centre. It will enable the company to strengthen its position in the transportation of satellites and strategic equipment and, when required, carry oversized components of the Ariane 6 programme.
The vessel will feature several cargo areas, including a large main ro-ro deck, a dedicated compartment for space-related cargoes with controlled environmental conditions, and a flexible open deck.
Marc-Antoine Girardet, President, Sogestran Group Maritime Division, said: “This new vessel marks another milestone in the development of our activities serving the European space industry. It has been designed to meet our customers’ growing requirements in terms of safety, reliability and logistical flexibility. This contract is the result of the cross-functional and collective efforts carried out over several years within Sogestran Group, Compagnie Maritime Nantaise and Avio. I would like to warmly thank all the people involved for their contribution to this achievement.”
Image: Specialised WAPS-hybrid ro-ro for transporting space industry components (source: Sogestran Group/VPLP Design)
