Rolls-Royce powers new Starnav fleet of hybrid offshore vessels with mtu Series 4000 engines
Posted on July 09, 2026
- Engines to power gensets for ten new ships built by Detroit Brasil for Brazilian energy company Petrobras
- New ships are series-first hybrids, achieving IMO Tier III compliance
Rolls-Royce has supplied offshore oil and gas shipping company Starnav Serviços Marítimos of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with 40 mtu 16V 4000 M33S engines to power ten new vessels for Brazilian energy company Petrobras. The engines, delivered in two phases, will be installed in gensets providing on-board power for six platform supply vessels and four oil spill response vessels built by shipbuilder Detroit Brasil Ltda.
Each new ship will be equipped with four gensets, each powered by an mtu 16V 4000 M33S engine, coupled with a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system from Hug Engineering to achieve IMO Tier III specifications while ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and environmental compliance. The new hybrid ships mark the first time integrated battery systems have been used in this vessel series, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency.
Magdalena Peters, Vice President Marine Americas, Rolls-Royce said: “We were thrilled to partner with Starnav on this project supporting hybrid offshore propulsion technology. Our mtu engines prove that high performance and sustainability can go hand in hand, providing reliable power with reduced emissions. This project highlights not only our continued growth in the commercial marine market but also reflects our commitment to supporting the shift toward cleaner, more efficient operation.”
Rolls-Royce’s mtu 16V 4000 M33S engines are engineered for long running hours, reduced maintenance levels and have proven longevity in offshore operations. Delivering 2080 kW at 1800 RPM, these engines provide rapid load response and operational reliability. They are designed for use in on-board power generation and diesel-electric drives.
When completed, each of the new vessels will measure 92.1 m in length, 20.0 m beam and 8.0 m depth, with a gross tonnage of 4,985 GT. All units will operate under 12-year charter contracts with Petrobras, supporting offshore logistics operations. The new vessels are scheduled to enter service between 2026 and 2028.
Carlos Eduardo Pereira, CEO of Starnav, said: “These new vessels mark a significant step forward for the offshore support vessels industry. By integrating mtu engines within a hybrid propulsion system, which includes a dedicated battery bank and the flexibility to use lower-emission HVO fuel, Starnav is demonstrating a tangible commitment to both environmental responsibility and operational efficiency. This project firmly positions Starnav as a pioneer in adopting cutting-edge technologies for a more sustainable maritime future.”
The project builds on a 15+ year partnership between Rolls-Royce, Starnav and Detroit Brasil Shipyard, during which Rolls-Royce has supplied more than 170 mtu Series 4000 engines for use in vessels and as exchange engines. This lasting partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, performance and reliable offshore operations.
About Rolls-Royce Holdings plc
- Rolls-Royce is a force for progress; powering, protecting and connecting people everywhere. Our products and service packages help our customers meet the growing need for power across multiple industries; enable governments to equip their armed forces with the power required to protect their citizens; and connect people, societies, cultures and economies together.
- Rolls-Royce has a local presence in 47 countries and customers in over a hundred more, including airlines and aircraft leasing companies, armed forces and navies, and marine and industrial customers.
- Through our multi-year transformation programme, we are building a high-performing, competitive, resilient and growing Rolls-Royce. We are building the financial capacity and agility to allow us to successfully develop and deliver the products that will support our customers through the energy transition.
- Annual underlying revenue was £20.1 billion in 2025, and underlying operating profit was £3.46 billion.
- Rolls-Royce Holdings plc is a publicly traded company (LSE: RR., ADR: RYCEY, LEI: 213800EC7997ZBLZJH69).
- Rolls-Royce Power Systems is headquartered in Friedrichshafen in southern Germany and employs more than 10,350 people. The product portfolio includes mtu-brand high-speed engines and propulsion systems for ships, heavy land, rail and defence vehicles and for the oil and gas industry. The portfolio also includes diesel and gas systems and battery containers for mission critical, standby and continuous power, combined generation of heat and power, and microgrids. With its climate friendly technologies, Rolls-Royce Power Systems is helping to drive the energy transition.
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