GT Wings launches wind propulsion tool

The tool has been developed in collaboration with independent wind propulsion specialists Blue Wasp Marine and is built on the Pelican Suite web-based modelling platform.

The system is intended to help shipowners generate structured, data-driven estimates of potential fuel savings, emissions reductions and regulatory compliance benefits before committing to full-scale adoption. It arrives as interest in wind-assisted propulsion grows across the shipping sector, with operators seeking more reliable early-stage performance insights to support investment decisions.

According to GT Wings, the AirWing Jet Sail system uses controlled suction and blowing to achieve high aerodynamic efficiency while maintaining a compact deck footprint. The company has already installed the system on board Carisbrooke Shipping’s MV Vectis Progress and has secured additional orders from Grieg Maritime Group, alongside completing more than 80 early-stage performance assessments to date.

The new assessment tool enables rapid route-based simulations across vessel types, operating profiles, and system configurations. It uses a four-degrees-of-freedom, physics-based modelling approach to provide consistent estimates of performance potential, allowing shipowners to compare configurations and build preliminary business cases.

Independent verification has been carried out by RINA, which confirmed that the modelling methodology aligns with recognised industry standards and guidelines, including MEPC circular 896 and the ITTC Guidelines for Wind Powered Ships (2024). The approval in principle provides additional assurance that the tool is suitable for early-stage evaluation of wind-assisted propulsion technologies.

“It’s vital that early performance assessments are credible and transparent,” said Jonny Gambell, sales and strategy director at GT Wings.

“This tool gives shipowners a trustworthy first view of potential savings, helping them to understand the return on investment and the reduced emissions that our technology brings.”

Blue Wasp Marine, which developed the underlying modelling framework, said its Pelican Suite software provides a technology-neutral approach to aerodynamic and hydrodynamic performance assessment and that the RINA approval confirms its direction.

RINA added that the collaboration supports robust performance prediction and aligns with its newly developed rules for wind-assisted propulsion systems, strengthening confidence in the evaluation process.

The tool is now available to GT Wings clients.