Italian tanker owner Augusta Due orders Chinese-built trio

Italian product tanker owner Augusta Due has signed for three 40,800 dwt oil and chemical tankers in China as it continues its fleet modernisation efforts. According to Splash 247, the Mednav Group company has entered into this agreement with Anhui Port & Shipping Sealand Equipment, a subsidiary of Tongling Port and Shipping Group.

Technical Specifications and Fleet Modernisation

The newbuildings are designed to offer about 48,500 cu m of cargo capacity spread across six pairs of cargo tanks. They will be supported by seven independent cargo transfer lines. The vessels have been engineered with the ability to carry chemicals as well as crude and refined petroleum products covered under MARPOL Annex I. Splash 247 reports that main and auxiliary engines on these ships can burn low-sulphur fuel oil, marine gasoil, and biofuel blends, featuring Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) equipment to meet IMO Tier III requirements.

Bruzzo Group’s Fleet Strategy

The order for the three new tankers is part of a broader fleet renewal programme by the Brullo Shipping Group. The company, which includes Augusta Due and Navalmed, has already been adding modern Chinese-built tonnage since 2025. For instance, in early that year, Augusta Due took delivery of the 18,500 dwt Primo M from Fujian Southeast Shipbuilding, followed by the Ginostra M later in the same year.

In its latest move, the group has opted for vessels built with advanced technology to meet stringent international standards on energy efficiency. According to Hellenic Shipping News, the new units are based on a design developed by SDARI (Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute) but have been adapted to meet specific commercial requirements.

The group is also focusing on sustainability, with the order marking another step in its high-tech tanker construction. Gabriele Brullo commented, "Advanced technology choices go hand in hand with a well-established strategy of fleet rejuvenation and efficiency improvements, aimed at meeting the requirements of a market that will become increasingly selective." The new vessels are scheduled for delivery by 2029.

Recent Deliveries and Orders

The Brullo Shipping Group’s fleet modernisation efforts also include recent deliveries. In February 2025, Augusta Due received the Hiera M, an Italian-flagged tanker built in compliance with the most stringent international standards on energy efficiency. A sister vessel from the same shipyard is scheduled for delivery in 2028.

Since 2025, the group has taken delivery of several vessels, including the Primo M (18,500 dwt), Ginostra M (18,500 dwt), and the Alicudi M (9,000 dwt). In addition to these newbuilds, Augusta Due also sold three older ships: Rinella M, Basiluzzo M, and Panarea M.

What this means for operators

The order of these modern tankers will allow Augusta Due to replace its aging fleet with more efficient vessels. This not only aligns with the overall strategy of the Brullo Shipping Group but also positions the company to meet increasing environmental and regulatory standards in the maritime industry. For other operators, this move highlights the growing importance of investing in new technology and advanced designs for their vessel fleets, especially as global regulations continue to evolve.