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U.S. shipbuilder General Dynamics NASSCO has held a keel laying ceremony for an 'eco' tanker to be built for American Petroleum Tankers (APT) at the company's shipyard in San Diego.

The vessel is the first of a five-tanker contract between General Dynamics NASSCO and APT, which calls for the design and construction of five 50,000-deadweight-tonne LNG-conversion-ready product carriers with a 330,000-barrel cargo capacity. The 610-foot-long tankers are to be also equipped with ballast water treatment systems.

The ships were designed by Korean firm Daewoo Ship Engineering Company (DSEC), a subsidiary of Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME).

The design incorporates a G-series MAN ME slow-speed main engine and an optimized hull form. The tankers are to also include dual-fuel-capable auxiliary engines and the ability to accommodate the future installation of an LNG fuel gas system.

"NASSCO is pleased to continue our commitment as good environmental stewards by building the most energy-efficient tankers in the Jones Act fleet, and in helping to sustain and grow highly skilled jobs right here in San Diego," commented Kevin Graney, vice president and general manager of General Dynamics NASSCO.

Katherine Faulconer - the wife of the mayor of San Diego - authenticated the keel of the first 'eco' tanker for APT by welding her initials onto a steel plate during the ceremony.