Recently, the demand for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) as power-generating fuel has rapidly
increased. On the other hand, the production of a new type of natural gas, due to the development
of technologies for gas extraction from shale formations (referred to as "Shale Gas Revolution"),
has been expanding mainly in the United States. Due to the increasing demand for this natural gas,
the marine transport of LNG is expected to increase significantly. Currently, regarding the
transport of American shale gas, which has attracted enormous attention, there are concerns such
as restrictions on the dimensions of vessels after the expansion of the Panama Canal and
long-distance transport across the Pacific Ocean. Therefore, it is important for LNG carriers to
achieve a high level of safety and improve cargo loading space efficiency. Mitsubishi Heavy
Industries, Ltd. (MHI) developed the 155 km3 Sayaendo LNG carrier in 2011, and has delivered
five vessels of the same model so far. In order to satisfy the needs of our customers, MHI has
completed the development of an "Apple-Shaped Tank" that inherits the features of the existing
MOSS spherical tank, which has enjoyed a great reputation for reliability. As of April 2016, MHI
has received orders for eight new LNG carriers with apple-shaped tanks, and began the
manufacturing of aluminum tanks in October 2015.