Iron-ore major Fortescue and maritime group CMB Tech have signed an agreement for the charter of up to 12 ammonia-capable vessels, which marks a big step towards decarbonising Fortescue's global shipping operations and advancing ammonia as a shipping fuel in general.

Under the agreement, Fortescue will charter a fleet of 12 Newcastlemax dry bulk vessels from Bicomar, CMB's dry bulk shipping operator. Each vessel carries about 210 000 t of material.

Up to three of the vessels will be delivered with dual-fuel ammonia engines and are expected to enter service by the end of the year.

The remaining nine vessels will be ammonia-ready and can be converted to operate on ammonia in the future.  

If fuelled by green ammonia, the combined fleet could reduce CO₂ emissions by about 250 000 t/y compared with conventional marine fuels. 

Fortescue integrated operations director Katie Charuga says the shipping industry does not need more talk but more action.

“Green ammonia is one of the clearest pathways to reducing CO₂ emissions from shipping, and these vessels represent a practical step towards that future. By backing new technologies and working with partners who are prepared to lead, we can help drive the uptake of green ammonia in shipping.  

“Fortescue’s Green Pioneer demonstration vessel has already shown that ammonia can be used safely and effectively in marine operations. The next challenge is scaling the use of green ammonia.

“By investing in ammonia-capable vessels and working with partners who share our ambition, we are helping create demand for green ammonia and supporting the technologies needed to reduce emissions from global shipping," Charuga explains.

CMB CEO Alexander Saverys affirms that Fortescue and Bocimar have built a strong partnership over more than two decades, grounded in shared values and a clear commitment to decarbonise shipping.  

“This agreement marks an important step in showcasing ammonia as a viable marine fuel and advancing the transition to zero-emission shipping. 

"It also sends a powerful signal to the market, particularly at a time when there is doubt about the decarbonisation of shipping: our sector can decarbonise at scale. It just takes like-minded, determined partners who walk the talk," Saverys concludes.