Tsuneishi Yura Dockyard has attained the GTT Approved Repair Yard license, enabling the facility to service membrane-type LNG carriers. This expansion complements the yard’s 40-year history of MOSS-type repairs, allowing it to support approximately 85% of the world’s operational LNG fleet. Located in Japan, the yard’s 330,000 DWT dry-dock is now a strategic node for the maintenance of both gas carriers and LNG-fueled vessels, directly supporting the maritime industry’s decarbonization and transition fuel goals.
Japan | March 9, 2026 – Tsuneishi Yura Dockyard Co., Ltd. has announced its transition into a full-service LNG repair hub after obtaining the Approved Repair Yard license from GTT (Gaztransport & Technigaz).
The license, awarded during the GTT Tokyo Seminar on March 9, 2026, authorizes the yard to perform specialized maintenance and complex repairs on membrane-type LNG containment systems, the technology that currently equips approximately 85% of the global LNG carrier fleet.
From MOSS to Membrane: A Strategic Evolution
Since 1982, Tsuneishi Yura has been a dominant force in the repair of MOSS-type (spherical tank) LNG carriers, completing work on 108 vessels. By winning the GTT license, the yard now bridges the gap between legacy fleets and the new generation of membrane-type ships.
This “dual-capability” is critical as the maritime industry shifts toward LNG as a primary transition fuel. The yard is now uniquely equipped to handle:
- MOSS-type LNG Carriers: Traditional spherical tank maintenance.
- Membrane-type LNG Carriers: High-tech GTT containment system repairs.
- LNG-Fueled Vessels: Routine and specialized maintenance for the growing fleet of dual-fuel merchant ships.
Supporting the Decarbonization Transition
As LNG continues to serve as the primary “transition fuel” toward zero-emission shipping, the demand for high-spec repair facilities is surging. Tsuneishi Yura is not only targeting traditional LNG carriers but also the growing fleet of LNG-fueled merchant vessels.
“We will work as one company to become a dockyard supporting decarbonisation within the maritime industry,” the company stated, emphasizing their commitment to the global shift toward cleaner maritime operations.
About the Companies
GTT (Gaztransport & Technigaz)
GTT (Gaztransport & Technigaz) is a French technology and engineering group with expertise in the design and development of cryogenic membrane containment systems for use in the transport and storage of liquefied gases. Over the past 60 years, the GTT Group has developed innovative technologies used in LNG carriers, floating terminals, onshore storage tanks, and multi-gas carriers.
Committed to building a sustainable world, GTT develops new solutions to support shipowners and energy providers in their journey towards a decarbonized future. This includes systems enabling commercial vessels to use LNG as fuel, cutting-edge digital solutions to enhance vessels’ economic and environmental performance, and active innovation in low-carbon solutions.
About TSUNEISHI Shipbuilding
Founded in Hiroshima, TSUNEISHI Shipbuilding is the core company of the TSUNEISHI Group, operating shipyards in Japan, the Philippines, and China. It specializes in bulk carriers, tankers, container ships, and now, next-generation fuel vessels including LNG, hydrogen and methanol-powered ships.
- Global Presence: Facilities in Japan, the Philippines, and China
- Headquarters: 1083 Tsuneishi, Numakuma-cho, Fukuyama, Hiroshima, Japan
- Core Business: Shipbuilding and repair
Tsuneishi Yura Dockyard
Part of Tsuneishi Group, Tsuneishi Yura Dockyard is one of Japan’s largest dedicated ship repair facilities. Located in Wakayama Prefecture, the yard is capable of handling massive vessels, including VLOCs and large LNG carriers, in its 330,000 DWT dry-dock.
Key Facilities:
- Dry-Dock: 405m length x 65m width (330,000 DWT capacity).
- Lifting Power: Equipped with 150-ton, 50-ton, and 20-ton cranes.
- Berthing: Multiple piers totaling nearly 700m in length.
Source: Tsuneishi Yura Dockyard