According to a recent publication by Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp., South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean Co. has landed a significant contract worth 1.93 trillion won (approximately $1.47 billion) to construct seven LNG dual-fuel container ships. This marks the first collaboration between the shipbuilder and the Taiwanese shipping giant.
The new vessels, each boasting a capacity of 15,880 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), will be built at Hanwha’s Okpo Shipyard located in Geoje, South Gyeongsang Province. Delivery is anticipated between 2028 and 2029.
These ships are designed with Ammonia Fuel Ready (AFR) specifications, allowing for future upgrades to ammonia dual-fuel propulsion systems. This design aligns with stringent International Maritime Organization (IMO) environmental regulations while offering flexibility in adopting alternative fuels as the industry transitions towards low-carbon solutions. The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has awarded these designs an Ammonia Fuel Ready Level 1C notation.
A standout feature of this project is the innovative Type-B LNG fuel tanks that operate at a pressure rating of 1.0 bar—an industry first globally. This advancement enhances safety measures and enables longer storage periods for vaporized LNG, ultimately leading to more efficient operational capabilities. These tanks were developed through collaboration between Hanwha Ocean and ABS.
Industry experts suggest that utilizing LNG dual-fuel technology can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 20%, making it an appealing option for shipping companies aiming for net-zero targets. Yang Ming already has five similar-sized LNG dual-fuel vessels on order with deliveries commencing in 2026; thus, adding these seven new ships will elevate their green fleet to twelve vessels—boosting their global competitiveness and operational flexibility.
Ammonia is gaining traction as a next-generation marine fuel due to its zero CO₂ emissions during combustion processes. By employing LNG tanks designed with future ammonia conversion in mind, Yang Ming can minimize conversion expenses while leveraging an increasingly robust supply chain—a strategic move that positions them well ahead of forthcoming international environmental standards.
This latest contract follows another agreement signed by Hanwha Ocean earlier this year with Evergreen Marine—a testament to the company’s expanding footprint in Taiwan and its commitment to sustainable shipbuilding practices.
