CMB.Tech and Fortescue have signed an agreement for the charter of up to 12 ammonia-capable Newcastlemax vessels from Bocimar, the dry bulk division of CMB.Tech.
The agreement covers a fleet of 12 Newcastlemax vessels (210,000 dwt). Up to three vessels will be delivered with dual fuel ammonia engines and are expected to enter service by the end of 2026. The remaining nine vessels will be delivered ammonia-ready and can be converted to operate on ammonia in the future.
If operated on green ammonia, the fleet could reduce CO2 emissions by about 250,000t annually compared with conventional marine fuels. The agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between Fortescue and Bocimar and supports both companies’ efforts to advance lower-emission shipping solutions.
Katie Charuga, Fortescue Director Integrated Operations, said: “The shipping industry doesn’t need more talk. It needs action. Green ammonia is one of the clearest pathways to reducing carbon dioxide emissions from shipping, and these vessels represent a practical step towards that future. By backing new technologies and working with partners who are prepared to lead, we can help drive the uptake of green ammonia in shipping. Fortescue’s Green Pioneer demonstration vessel has already shown that ammonia can be used safely and effectively in marine operations. The next challenge is scaling the use of green ammonia. By investing in ammonia-capable vessels and working with partners who share our ambition, we are helping create demand for green ammonia and supporting the technologies needed to reduce emissions from global shipping.”
Alexander Saverys, CEO CMB.Tech, added: “Fortescue and Bocimar have built a strong partnership over more than two decades, grounded in shared values and a clear commitment to decarbonise shipping. This agreement marks an important step in showcasing ammonia as a viable marine fuel and advancing the transition to zero-emission shipping. It also sends a powerful signal to the market, particularly at a time when there is doubt about the decarbonisation of shipping: our sector can decarbonise at scale. It just takes like-minded, determined partners who walk the talk.”
Image: Bocimar dry bulk ship (source: CMB.Tech)
