GT Wings secures first commercial order for AirWing system
Grieg Maritime Group has signed up for wind-assisted propulsion, contracting GT Wings to install its AirWing™ system on one of its vessels, with options to expand across the fleet.
Two months ago, we brought the news that GT-Wings had secured verification from Lloyd’s Register (London, U.K.) that the methodology it uses to assess AirWing performance during sea trials aligns with recognized industry standards. Since then, the company has been rather busy, resulting in expanding its activities to the Asian markets, and working on its first commercial contracts.
MoU with Chinese production company
To support industrial-scale production of AirWing units, GT Wings has signed a memorandum of understanding with China’s Zunsion Technology (Nantong), establishing a strategic manufacturing partnership that combines GT Wings’ technology expertise with Zunsion’s automated production capabilities. This collaboration will expand capacity closer to key shipbuilding and drydock hubs, complementing existing Europe-based supply chains and enabling accelerated delivery timelines for global demand.
Industry collaboration commitment
GT Wings joined the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) as an associate member, reinforcing its commitment to industry collaboration and collective progress toward sustainable shipping. Through this membership, the company aims to support broader adoption of practical decarbonization solutions and engage with partners across the dry bulk sector on wind-assisted propulsion initiatives.
First commercial contract
The deal with Grieg Maritime Group covers at least two AirWing™20 units to be fitted on the open hatch vessel Star Kirkenes, marking the first commercial order for the UK-based technology developer.
The units — described as Jet Sails — will be installed on the vessel’s forecastle during a scheduled drydocking in late 2026 or early 2027.
Grieg said the move is part of a broader push to cut fuel consumption on its existing fleet, rather than waiting for new fuels or newbuildings to deliver emissions gains.
The AirWing system uses wind power to generate additional thrust, reducing engine load and fuel burn. The actual savings will depend on trading patterns and operating conditions, the company noted.
Grieg’s technical team assessed several wind-assisted options before settling on GT Wings’ design, citing its relatively compact footprint and strong thrust output — a key factor for vessels with limited deck space. The installation is also not expected to interfere with cargo operations or capacity on board the vessel.
The project will be the second full-scale installation of the AirWing system and comes as the company ramps up manufacturing capacity in Europe and Asia. The contract also includes options to equip three additional K-class vessels, giving Grieg room to scale up if performance meets expectations.
Source: Compositesworld and Splash Tech.
Image: Grieg.
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