MISC Group has expanded its fleet renewal strategy with an order for two LNG dual-fuel Suezmax tankers through its petroleum and product shipping subsidiary, AET. The Malaysian shipowner said the vessels will operate under long-term time charter party agreements, though charterers, contract values and delivery timelines were not disclosed.

According to MISC Group, the new Suezmaxes form part of one of the company’s most extensive renewal cycles to date. MISC currently operates 106 vessels, and with the addition of these two tankers, the group will have 21 newbuilds under construction, scheduled for delivery over the next two to three years.

With this order, MISC will have LNG dual-fuel capability across every tanker segment in which it operates — Aframaxes, shuttle tankers, and Suezmaxes — strengthening what the company describes as its “dual-fuel energy pathway.” The approach leverages LNG as a transitional decarbonisation tool while preparing for future zero-carbon fuels, including ammonia.

In April 2024, the group signed a long-term time charter agreement for a series of ammonia dual-fuel Aframax tankers, marking its entry into ammonia propulsion technology. MISC said the latest orders emphasise its intention to combine near-term emissions reductions with future-ready vessel designs.

"This milestone reinforces MISC Group's commitment to advancing the energy transition and achieving our GHG reduction ambitions," said Zahid Osman, President and Group CEO of MISC Group. "This represents one of the most extensive and forward-leaning renewal cycles in our history, reflecting a strategy that extends well beyond modernisation."

The company stated that the dual-fuel Suezmaxes have been ordered as part of a long-term strategy to enhance cash-flow resilience, optimise operational efficiency, and rejuvenate its fleet with newer, more efficient assets.

"Our investments in dual-fuel technologies position us at the forefront of innovation, ensuring we remain competitive while contributing impactfully to global decarbonisation efforts," Osman also added.

While the company did not disclose expected greenhouse gas reduction figures for the Suezmaxes, LNG dual-fuel systems generally deliver lower CO₂, NOx, SOx and particulate emissions than conventional fuel oil.

MISC Group is an international maritime company with more than 55 years of experience in the sector, operating a fleet of vessels and floating assets.