Qatar’s state-owned oil and gas giant QatarEnergy has marked a significant milestone with the recent naming ceremony of a new liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ shipyard in South Korea.
This event, held on July 14, celebrated the completion of a 174,000 cubic meter (cbm) LNG vessel named Halwan, signifying a new chapter in QatarEnergy’s global shipping ambitions. The naming ceremony was part of a joint venture effort involving prominent players such as Japan’s Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line), Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, China LNG Shipping, and MISC, managed through its subsidiary Portovenere and Lerici (Labuan).
Halwan becomes the ninth in a series of twelve LNG carriers being constructed for QatarEnergy. This initiative highlights Qatar’s strategic investment in enhancing its LNG transport capabilities, positioning the country as a key player in the global energy market. The ship will be utilized for transporting liquefied natural gas around the world, reinforcing Qatar’s reputation as a leading supplier.
The vessel is not just a feat of engineering but also a significant advancement in sustainable technology. It is equipped with the state-of-the-art X-DF 2.1 iCER, a low-speed dual-fuel engine designed to optimize performance while minimizing emissions. This technology, coupled with an innovative air lubrication system that reduces the drag between the ship’s hull and seawater, fosters lower fuel consumption and contributes to reduced greenhouse gas output.
QatarEnergy’s commitment to sustainability is evident as it continues to modernize its fleet, focusing on eco-friendly operational practices. The seventh and eighth vessels of this series were named in December 2025, with the inaugural ships carrying the names Sharq and Shra’Ouh, both equipped with similar environmentally conscious features.
As part of a broader LNG fleet expansion program, QatarEnergy plans to incorporate a total of 128 vessels, including 24 QC-Max-size LNG carriers. This ambitious endeavor not only highlights Qatar’s growing influence in the LNG sector but also reflects its adaptability to meet the escalating global energy demands.
K Line has designated the LNG sector as a priority in its medium-term management strategy, reaffirmed in May 2022. The organization aims to diversify its services to cater to the growing energy requirements of its clients and fortify its long-term partnerships in the industry. This strategic alignment signals K Line’s foresight in adapting to the evolving landscape of global energy markets.
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