Wärtsilä and Swedish operator Erik Thun Group have signed a new long-term overhaul frame agreement, developed jointly with longstanding fleet management partner MF Shipping Group, and includes comprehensive overhaul services, technical services, field services, workshops support, and parts supplies.
The aim is to ensure the longevity and performance of the four-stroke medium-speed engines, propulsion machinery, and shaft line equipment installed throughout the Erik Thun Group fleet. According to Wartsila, the shipping industry is shifting from transactional services to long-term lifecycle partnerships, prioritising operational continuity and efficiency in response to market demands for reliability and sustainability. Enhanced digitalisation and regulatory pressures are driving companies to adopt future-ready models that ensure safety, resilience, and ongoing value creation.
Henrik Källsson, Deputy MD, Erik Thun Group, said: “This agreement reflects our commitment to reliable operations and continuous improvement. We continue to introduce new and increasingly sustainable generations of vessels, and in this, the know-how and expertise of Wärtsilä plays an important role.” .
The scope of the agreement between Wärtsilä and Erik Thun Group includes comprehensive technical and operational services, including maintenance of four-stroke medium-speed engines, propulsion systems, and shaft line equipment across Erik Thun Group’s fleet. Wärtsilä will deliver field services to minimise vessel downtime through proactive maintenance. Workshop support will be provided to recondition and restore components to working condition and to meet OEM standards. In addition, a reliable supply of spare parts will ensure consistent operational reliability. Erik Thun Group will benefit from improved fleet performance, technical services, extended equipment lifecycles, and assured operational continuity, ensuring their vessels operate efficiently and sustainably.
Stefan Wiik, VP Parts and Field Service, Wärtsilä Marine, said: “By delivering broad service coverage and OEM-level support, we can enhance fleet reliability, minimise downtime, reduce fuel consumption and simplify overhaul planning for short sea schedules. As the industry moves towards decarbonised operations, Wärtsilä provides the lifecycle support needed to ensure compliance, operational performance, and future-ready viability.”
The Erik Thun Group fleet, comprising of general dry cargo vessels, product tankers and cement carriers, operates across Northern European short sea shipping routes with around 50 vessels serving multiple segments. As a longstanding Wärtsilä customer, Erik Thun Group has procured engines and propulsion solutions for various vessel classes.
Image: Wärtsilä and Erik Thun Group have signed a long-term agreement to ensure reliable engine and propulsion performance across the fleet (credit: Erik Thun Group)
