Landskrona, Sweden – August 27, 2025 — In a landmark moment for maritime decarbonization, Oceanbird’s first full-scale rigid wing sail, Wing 560, has been officially launched at a test site in Landskrona. Named for its impressive 560-square-meter surface, Wing 560 unfurled its two segments, rotated into position, and dominated the skyline in a display of wind-powered innovation.
A Symbol of Green Transformation
Sweden’s Minister of Infrastructure and Housing, Andreas Carlson, called the launch “a true milestone,” emphasizing how collaborative efforts are steering the industry toward fossil-free shipping. He praised Oceanbird’s leadership in the green industrial transformation.
Design & Technology Highlights
- Size & Structure: Wing 560 stands a towering 40 meters high and 14 meters wide, utilizing a two-segment configuration (main sail plus flap) to generate aerodynamic camber and maximize thrust.
- Materials: The core is built from high-strength steel, with outer layers of glass-fiber composites and repurposed PET—some 370,000 recycled plastic bottles contribute to its makeup.
- Functionality: Designed to rotate 360° and tilt down when required—such as navigating harbors or encountering strong winds—Wing 560 ensures safe and adaptable operation.
From Prototype to Production
Magnus MackAldener, interim CEO and Head of R&D at Oceanbird, celebrated the occasion, highlighting the company’s clear mission: “to prove that wind can once again play a significant role in powering ships.” With the prototype now unveiled, Oceanbird stands ready to take orders.
The inaugural wing will remain at the Landskrona shipyard as a permanent fixture—serving purposes ranging from crew training and customer demonstrations to automation system optimization. A second identical unit is already under assembly and is slated for installation on Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s car carrier Tirranna in early 2026.
Stage Set for Low-Emission Shipping
Oceanbird, a joint venture between Alfa Laval and Wallenius Lines established in December 2021, targets a 7–10% fuel and emissions savings on retrofitted vessels via Wing 560. Meanwhile, the concept of fully wind-powered vessels—like the upcoming Orcelle Wind roll-on/roll-off ship—could slash emissions by at least 60–90%, depending on route and operating speed.
Oceanbird has already achieved significant regulatory validation. In 2023, the Design Approval in Principle (AiP) was awarded by DNV, confirming that no fundamental obstacles exist and attesting to the wing’s safety—particularly its ability to tilt under high-wind conditions.
Looking Ahead
With the prototype successfully launched and real-world deployment in motion, Oceanbird is entering its commercialization phase. Leadership will be reinforced by Amrit Kaur Bhullar, who will take over as CEO starting January 1, 2026, steering the company toward scale and broader market impact.
