Image: Gasum

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Bunker supplier Gasum has conducted its first truck-to-ship LNG bunkering operation in Germany this week.

On July 27, a delivery was made to the world's first LNG-fuelled research vessel, ATAIR II, which is currently under construction at Fassmer shipyard in Berne.

Commenting on the operation, Gasum's Jacob Granqvist, Sales Director, LNG Maritime, remarked: "Our first LNG bunkering operation with trucks in Germany was a great success and we are proud that we can support the Fassmer shipyard with this very important newbuild project. Gasum have already supported customers with ship-to-ship deliveries in North West Europe."

Discussing the company's future plans, Granqvist noted: "This truck-to-ship delivery underlines our commitment to expand our geographical footprint in continental Europe.

"We are working actively on extending our business in the region and have lined up several projects in Germany, Poland, The Netherlands and Belgium."

The ATAIR II is due to enter into service later this year, replacing the old ATAIR, which was commissioned in 1987. It is to be used for sea surveying, wreck search and research.

The new vessel is said to comply with TIER III exhaust emission regulations and EPA TIER IV rules regarding soot particles.

Fassmer was awarded the contract to build the ATAIR II for the German Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH). Gasum is delivering the LNG and supporting Fassmer in the execution of the operation at the shipyard.

Back in May, LNG supplier Nauticor carried out its first delivery as subsidiary of Gasum to the 17994-dwt Ramelia. It was also the Hamburg firm's first ship-to-ship LNG bunker delivery to a product tanker in Germany.

Providing an insight into Gasum's plans in Northwest Europe at the time, Granqvist stated: "The acquisition of Nauticor is an important step in Gasum's growth strategy and the successful bunkering of Ramelia underlines our commitment to develop the clean marine bunkering business in Northwest Europe, adding Germany to the list of countries we are active in to ensure the availability of environmentally friendly LNG for our customers."