Bergen Engines is a trusted supplier of propulsion engines and generating sets for naval vessels to the Royal Norwegian Navy and other sovereign navies around the world.

Naval applications have particularly demanding requirements for reliable power and performance. We pride ourselves in meeting and exceeding such standards.

Well-proven technology with low structural noise and vibration, combined with a modular engine design, enables easier maintenance and reduced downtime – making Bergen Engines a preferred choice for applications such as coast guard vessels, research vessels, multi-function support ships, replenishment tankers, and logistics and auxiliary vessels.

Powering Jan Mayen

Built by Vard and designed by LMG Marin, the vessels role is central to Norway’s maritime security including search and rescue, environmental protection, oil spill response, sovereignty patrols and long-duration missions across vast Arctic waters.

Each Jan Mayen-class vessel is equipped with four Bergen B33:45L8A generator sets, delivering 4.8 MW each. These engines are engineered for high efficiency and stable output, forming the backbone of the ships’ diesel-electric propulsion system.

A defining feature of the class is its ability to operate in temperatures down to –25°C. Extreme cold places significant stress on fuel systems, lubrication, and engine components but Bergen engines are built to run reliably in varying conditions, ensuring steady power when it matters most.

Biofuel Power Since 2025

The vessel depends on four Bergen B33:45 engines (two L9A and two L6A gensets) for its diesel-electric propulsion and onboard power, delivering the silent, resilient performance required for science in the most remote regions on Earth.

BAS is rapidly decarbonising its marine fleet, and the Sir David Attenborough has become a key platform for low-carbon innovation. Trials with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) began in 2023, and by the 2025-2026 season, the vessel was undertaking its 6,000-nauticalmile voyage to Uruguay and Antarctica running on HVO.

Bergen engines require no modification to operate on renewable diesel, enabling up to 94% reductions in lifecycle CO₂ emissions without affecting range or scientific capability.

Dependable Power for Critical Missions

Bergen’s B36:45L6AG engines are central to the performance of the class. Operating on liquefied natural gas, they provide lower emission power while delivering the strength required for rapid response operations.

The engines consistent, stable power supply underpins all major mission systems, from firefighting and environmental response equipment to the ship’s extensive electrical network. Additionally, they ensure dependable performance even during long-duration, high-load operations, enabling the vessels to operate safely and effectively throughout the year. Their proven ability to deliver stable output in harsh maritime environments makes them a strong match for Germany’s demanding coastal protection requirements.