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Malaysian tanker operator, AET Tanker Holdings Sdn Bhd (AET), has announced the delivery of a second 'eco-design' VLCC that is fitted with a range of innovative technology that is said to significantly reduce fuel consumption and associated emissions.

Named Eagle Varna, the 320,000-dwt vessel's enviro innovations include a pre-swirl stator, rudder bulb and propeller boss cap fins. Taken together, these additions produce a tangible reduction in overall fuel use. Eagle Varna has been awarded the ENVIRO and the Green Passport notation by class society the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). The EEDI attained is significantly less than the IMO base line.

The vessel is also claimed to be fully compliant with the IMO Ballast Water Management Convention. It is fitted with the Techcross BWM System that disinfects ballast water using electrolysis technology.

Speaking at the naming ceremony at the Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) shipyard in South Korea, AET President and CEO, Hor Weng Yew said: "Investing in eco-technology is a given for operators who seek to stay ahead of the curve and who have a passion for delivering optimum solutions to their customers. This new vessel reinforces AET’s position as a world leading tanker operator and also as a company that takes its environmental responsibilities extremely seriously."

Two additional VLCCs will be delivered from the DSME yard later in the year. These vessels will be further enhanced with the latest super long-stroke green electronically controlled main engines that deliver more power using less fuel, together with a DSME duct.