Bruton, the emerging tanker powerhouse backed by Norwegian tycoon Tor Olav Trøim, has significantly accelerated its expansion strategy. The Oslo-listed firm recently finalized a contract with China’s Yantai CIMC Raffles for the construction of four additional Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs), signaling a robust long-term commitment to the global crude oil transport market.
\n\nStrategic Shipyard Expansion
\nThe newly ordered quartet represents a total investment of nearly $500 million, with each vessel priced at $124.75 million. According to company filings, these tankers will be delivered to Bruton’s subsidiaries between January and July 2028. This deal marks a diversification of Bruton’s shipbuilding portfolio; while the company already holds orders for eight VLCCs at New Times Shipyard, this pivot to CIMC Raffles secures essential additional slots in a tightening global shipyard market.
\n\nTechnical Specifications and Compliance
\nThe vessels will be constructed based on the MARIC 319,000 dwt design, a benchmark for efficiency and capacity in the tanker industry. To address evolving environmental regulations while maintaining operational cost-effectiveness, the ships will be equipped with open-loop scrubbers. This choice allows the fleet to continue utilizing high-sulfur fuel oil (HSFO) while meeting international emissions requirements, a common strategy for larger vessels engaged in long-haul crude trades.
\n\nBoard Strengthening for Growth
\nParallel to its fleet expansion, Bruton has bolstered its leadership team with high-profile appointments. The company has welcomed Jens Martin Jensen and Christian Ness to its Board of Directors. Their combined expertise is expected to be pivotal as Bruton transitions from a newcomer to a market-leading VLCC platform.
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- Jens Martin Jensen: A veteran of the shipping world with a resume that includes senior leadership roles at Maersk and Frontline. He currently serves as the CEO of Athenian Sea Carriers. \n
- Christian Ness: A finance specialist and former head of Fearnley Finans, bringing deep expertise in maritime project finance. \n
Chairman Bjorn Isaksen emphasized that the appointment of these industry heavyweights provides the necessary "expertise and networks" to support Bruton’s ambitious growth phase. With twelve VLCCs now confirmed in its pipeline, Bruton is rapidly positioning itself as a major player in the energy logistics sector.