Image by GTT
The landscape of liquefied gas transport is shifting. As of February 2026, French engineering giant GTT and South Korean shipbuilding leader HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) have officially entered a Joint Development Project (JDP) to design a next-generation 102,000 m³ Very Large Ethane Carrier (VLEC).
GTT Mark III System
This collaboration marks a significant leap in maritime engineering, centering on the integration of GTT’s innovative Mark III Slim™ membrane containment system to create a vessel that is larger, more efficient, and environmentally superior.
Revolutionising Ethane Transport: The Mark III Slim™ Advantage
At the heart of this new 102,000 m³ VLEC is the Mark III Slim™ technology. This ethane-optimized cargo containment system is designed to address the specific density and cryogenic requirements of ethane while maximizing the vessel’s internal volume.
Key Benefits of Mark III Slim™:
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Space Optimization: Featuring a thinner membrane and lighter panels, the “Slim” variant allows for a more compact tank design.
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Enhanced Payload: By adding approximately 1,300 m³ of cargo capacity compared to standard designs, the system reduces deadweight by nearly 200 tons.
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Simplified Construction: With simplified anchoring arrangements and lighter panels, the system streamlines the shipbuilding process at yards like HD HHI.
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Improved Hydrodynamics: The thinner containment system allows for a superior adjustment to the hull, facilitating an optimized hull geometry that reduces drag.
For more on technical advancements in the sector, explore the maritime-hub.com/technology-innovations section.
Scaling Up: The Move to 102,000 m³
The shift from the previous standard of 98,000 m³ VLECs to this new 102,000 m³ capacity reflects growing global demand for ethane as a petrochemical feedstock. As US-to-Asia and US-to-Europe trade routes expand, the industry is seeking “economies of scale” to lower the cost per ton of transported gas.
“As the ethane market continues to scale, leadership will be defined by the ability to innovate and partner effectively,” stated Dong Jin Lee, Executive Vice President of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.
| Specification | Standard VLEC | New GTT/HD HHI JDP |
| Capacity | 98,000 m³ | 102,000 m³ |
| Containment | Mark III Flex | Mark III Slim™ |
| Focus | Standard Transport | Hydrodynamic Efficiency & CO2 Reduction |
A Greener Horizon: Decarbonizing the Fleet
This JDP isn’t just about size; it’s about sustainability. By combining HD HHI’s advanced hull design capabilities with GTT’s membrane expertise, the project aims to significantly reduce CO2 emissions per ton of ethane transported.
The integrated approach ensures that the vessel’s naval architecture is designed around the tank. This synergy is expected to result in:
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Lower Fuel Consumption: Optimized hydrodynamics and a lower draft lead to significant yearly fuel savings.
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Increased Efficiency: Higher cargo volumes per voyage reduce the total carbon footprint of the supply chain.
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Higher Speeds: Historical data suggests an average speed increase of approximately +0.8 knots for membrane-type carriers.
Sources
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GTT Official Press Release (Feb 4, 2026): “GTT and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries partner to advance VLEC design and energy performance.”
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EuropaWire (Feb 5, 2026): “GTT and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Launch Joint Development Project for Next-Generation 102,000 m³ VLEC.”
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GTT Technical Insights: “GTT Membrane Technology Driving the Next Generation of Ethane Carriers.”
