Wind propulsion technology company GT Wings has reached a significant commercial milestone, securing its first-ever commercial order for its AirWing system from Norwegian shipping group Grieg Maritime, according to Ship & Bunker.
A Landmark Deal for Wind-Assisted Propulsion
As reported by Ship & Bunker, the agreement covers the installation of a minimum of two AirWing units aboard the vessel Star Kirkenes. GT Wings shared news of the contract via a LinkedIn post, noting that the installation is planned to take place during a scheduled drydocking period in either late 2026 or early 2027.
The deal also carries an option for Grieg Maritime to extend the AirWing rollout across additional vessels in its K-class fleet, according to the same report.
Why Grieg Chose the AirWing System
Ship & Bunker reports that Grieg Maritime conducted a structured evaluation of available wind-assisted propulsion technologies before settling on the AirWing. Two factors stood out in their decision: the system’s strong thrust output and its relatively compact physical footprint — a particularly valued characteristic for vessels where deck space is at a premium.
Wind propulsion technology works by allowing vessels to draw on wind energy as a supplementary power source, helping to lower fuel consumption and reduce emissions, all without disrupting cargo-carrying capacity, as noted by Ship & Bunker.
Industry Significance
For GT Wings, this order marks a pivotal transition from development to commercial deployment. The inclusion of a fleet-wide expansion option signals that Grieg Maritime sees the AirWing not merely as a trial, but as a technology with broader potential across its operations.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
