Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) and Japan Airlines (JAL) have entered into an agreement with Lloyd’s Register and US-based REGENT Craft to jointly develop vessel certification and operational approval processes for REGENT’s fully electric “Seaglider” craft, with the aim of commercialising the technology in Japan by around 2030.

The agreement marks the first collaboration in Japan involving a classification society towards the commercialisation of Seaglider vessels, according to MOL.

Seaglider craft are wing-in-ground (WIG) effect vehicles that fly a few metres above the sea surface, combining characteristics of maritime vessels and aircraft. REGENT claims the craft can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h while offering zero-emission operation, and is developing the technology for both passenger and cargo services, with a focus on coastal city connections and regional island routes.

Under the joint development project, Lloyd’s Register — which has partnered with REGENT to become the first international classification society to certify Seaglider vessels outside the United States — will serve as an independent third-party adviser, providing technical, safety, and regulatory guidance. MOL and JAL, in collaboration with REGENT, aim to establish a framework for certification and approval processes in Japan, drawing on their respective expertise in maritime and aviation operations.

MOL said it will use the collaboration to strengthen engagement with relevant Japanese government authorities as part of efforts to advance commercialisation.

Both MOL and JAL have previously made investments in REGENT, which is headquartered in Rhode Island and has secured global commercial orders said to be valued at more than $10bn from airline and ferry operators worldwide, as well as $15m in contracts with the US Marine Corps. The company has raised more than $100m from investors including 8090 Industries, Founders Fund, JAL, and Lockheed Martin.

Ted Lester, vice president of certification at REGENT, commented: “Bringing Seaglider operations to Japan represents a significant milestone for REGENT and for the future of coastal mobility. Establishing clear certification pathways in Japan is the critical foundation that makes commercial deployment possible, and we couldn’t ask for stronger partners to do that work alongside us. MOL, JAL, and Lloyd’s Register each bring deep expertise in safety, certification, and operations as we move forward to bring Seaglider technology from vision to reality in one of the world’s most important maritime markets.”

Ryota Hayashi, general manager of the Energy Business Strategy Division at MOL, stated: “This partnership marks an important step forward in developing the market for Seaglider vessels. By combining MOL and JAL’s expertise in safe and reliable maritime and aviation operations with REGENT’s innovative technology and Lloyd’s Register’s certification capabilities, we aim to pave the way for Seaglider operations in Japan. We believe this initiative will create new opportunities in passenger and cargo transportation and contribute to a sustainable and advanced transportation network.”