You are using an outdated browser For a better experience using this site, please upgrade to a modern web browser. Subscribe Get Daily Email Subscribe --> Contact Us Sign in Home News & Features Compliance Costs Bunker Prices Bunker Intelligence Asia/Pacific News Latest Features World Americas EMEA Asia/Pacific Home News & Features Asia / Pacific MOL to Take Operational Role for LNG Dual-Fuel Arctic Research Vessel MOL to Take Operational Role for LNG Dual-Fuel Arctic Research Vessel by Ship & Bunker News Team Wednesday September 30, 2026 Tweet Follow @shipandbunker The vessel will be officially delivered in December. Image Credit: MOL Japanese shipping company MOL has signed an agreement with the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) to operate the LNG dual-fuel Arctic research vessel. The vessel, Mirai II , is scheduled for delivery on December 18 , , with its first Arctic Ocean expedition planned for summer 2027 . Mirai II will be Japan's first research vessel with icebreaking capability and will serve as an international platform for Arctic research. MOL was selected as the prospective operator in 2023 and has been preparing its crew and operational framework. In February , the company conducted polar survival training in Hokkaido for seafarers expected to serve aboard the vessel. The training included cold-water swimming in immersion suits and drills for escaping from the sea onto ice. MOL said it will use its Northern Sea Route experience, LNG expertise and trained personnel to support safe operations. Ship & Bunker News Team To contact the editor responsible for this story email us at [email protected] Also in the News POLL: Will We Yet See a Bunker Supply Squeeze From Hormuz and Middle East Disruption? Prices are up and the conflict is spreading, but Singapore volumes are at record levels and buyers say sourcing is currently not a problem. Read in Full Kongsberg Maritime to Acquire Marine Propulsion Firm Steerpro