Tsuneishi’s 600-ship milestone triggers new era of standardisation

The latest 64,000-tonne model improves fuel efficiency.

Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. has delivered “DORIC FLAME,” the 600th vessel in its TESS bulk carrier series, according to a press release.

The vessel, completed on 3 February 2026 at Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu), Inc. in the Philippines, forms part of the Tsuneishi Economical Standard Ship series launched in 1984.

The milestone vessel is the TESS64 AEROLINE, a 64,000-tonne-class bulk carrier featuring a rounded bow that reduces wind resistance by about 10%, and is equipped with a Fresh Air Intake System and an electronically controlled engine, delivering around 20% higher fuel efficiency than the earlier TESS58 model.

Tsuneishi was amongst the early builders to introduce 40,000-tonne-class Handymax vessels through the TESS40 at a time when industry standards were lower, before expanding the series with the TESS45, TESS52 and TESS58, with the 500th vessel completed in November 2019.

“Since 1984, the TESS series has continued to evolve under the concept of a standardised vessel design that combines economic efficiency with versatility, while sincerely reflecting customer feedback and market needs,” said Okumura Sachio, Representative Director, president and executive officer of Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.