In 2015, the ABS-classed fleet surpassed 230 mill gt, a nearly 5% growth from the previous year. The largest areas of expansion for the class society came from the tanker, gas carrier, containership, bulk carrier, offshore support vessel, and offshore production unit sectors. In total, more than 841 new assets entered the ABS-classed fleet, bringing its total to 12,614 assets.
The class society’s orderbook saw even more growth in 2015, with a 15% year-on-year increase to 57.2 mill gt of vessels set to be classed by ABS.
“We had a solid performance in 2015, earning the top position in global orderbook share based on gross tonnage and confirming our strong relationships with owners and shipyards around the world,” said Wiernicki. “Our continued growth shows that ABS is well-positioned for today and we are equally ready for tomorrow.”
Looking to the future, Wiernicki also provided an overview of ABS’ Technology programme. In 2015, ABS participated in 43 joint development and industry research projects and 37 academic research partnerships, as part of more than 150 technology projects. ABS published 64 new or updated rules, guides, guidance notes, and advisories.