Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has signed an agreement with the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) under which MOL will be responsible for the operations of the Arctic research vessel, Mirai II. This vessel is designed as an international research platform and is equipped with ice-breaking capabilities, which will be used for the first time in the history of Japanese research vessels.
Details of the Mirai II Vessel
The Mirai II vessel is equipped with advanced monitoring equipment and is expected to commence its first research voyage in the Arctic Ocean in the summer of 2027. The naming and unveiling ceremony for this vessel will take place in March 2025 at the Isogo plant of Japan Marine United (JMU). Currently, the outfitting stages of the vessel, including the installation of living quarters, monitoring equipment, electrical systems, and engine rooms, are underway. The vessel is expected to be fully completed and delivered by December 18, 2026.
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Preparation for Operations
MOL has been selected as the proposed operator of the Mirai II vessel since 2023 and is preparing the operational framework for this vessel. In this regard, in February 2026, survival training courses in polar regions for seafarers who will serve on this vessel were held in the city of Mombetsu, Hokkaido. This training included simulations of emergency situations in extremely cold environments and cold-water swimming exercises using immersion suits.
Participants in these courses enhanced their skills to respond to specific hazards of polar regions and acquired the necessary knowledge and skills for safety management and teamwork in emergency situations. MOL aims to promote polar research and achieve a sustainable society by ensuring the safe operations of the Mirai II vessel, leveraging its operational experiences in the North Sea and its knowledge and expertise in LNG fuel.
MOL will also closely collaborate with JAMSTEC and other stakeholders to continuously prepare for the completion, delivery, and commencement of operations of the Mirai II vessel.
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