Japan has taken a step closer to hydrogen-powered shipping, with a full-scale main engine for a commercial vessel successfully running on hydrogen in factory tests. Japan Engine Corporation and Kawasaki Heavy Industries said their large, low-speed two-stroke engine has achieved hydrogen co-firing across all cylinders, reaching more than 95% hydrogen use at full load. The engine — designed for installation on an oceangoing vessel — marks a shift from earlier hydrogen projects, which have largely been limited to small ships operating on short routes. The new unit is being developed under a state-backed programme led by NEDO, with support from Mitsui OSK. Lines (MOL), MOL Drybulk, Onomichi Dockyard and class society ClassNK. Unlike previous efforts, the project combines a high-output two-stroke engine with liquefied hydrogen fuel, targeting longer voyages and heavier cargo operations. Further testing is planned to refine performance, but the engine is already lined up for delivery in January 2027. It will be installed on a 17,500 dwt multipurpose vessel being built by Onomichi Dockyard. Kawasaki is also developing the onboard hydrogen fuel supply system, which will be fitted alongside the engine. The vessel is expected to enter a three-year demonstration phase from 2028, operated by MOL and its dry bulk arm, with ClassNK overseeing safety throughout development and trials. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1_95_0_1_2'); }); TagsHydrogen Japan