Advancing Toward the Start of Operations in December 2026

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, announced the signing of an agreement with the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology  to provide operational services and related work for JAMSTEC’s Arctic research vessel, the Mirai II . Under the agreement, MOL will be responsible for operating the Mirai II. The vessel will serve as an international research platform equipped with icebreaking capability-a first for a Japanese research vessel-as well as some of the world’s leading observation capabilities. Its first Arctic Ocean expedition, the First Arctic Ocean Observation Cruise, is scheduled for around summer 2027.

Since its selection in 2023 as the prospective operator of the vessel, MOL has been preparing to establish the operational framework for the Mirai II. As part of these preparations, in February, MOL conducted polar survival training in Mombetsu City, Hokkaido, for seafarers scheduled to serve aboard the vessel . The training simulated emergency situations in extremely cold environments and included cold-water swimming exercises using immersion suits, drills for escaping from the sea onto ice, and outdoor activities on ice. Participants strengthened their ability to respond to risks unique to polar regions and gained the knowledge and skills necessary for teamwork and safety management in emergencies.

MOL will contribute to the advancement of polar research and the realization of a sustainable society by ensuring the safe operation of the Mirai II, making full use of the operational experience it has accumulated on the Northern Sea Route, its knowledge and expertise in handling LNG fuel, and its highly skilled personnel. MOL will continue to work closely with JAMSTEC and other stakeholders to steadily advance preparations for the vessel’s completion, delivery, and start of operations.