Ocean Network Express (ONE) has placed an order with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for six LNG-fuelled containerships, each with a capacity of 15,000 TEU. According to multiple industry sources, the vessels are priced at approximately USD 203 million per ship. The order is part of the Japanese container carrier's fleet renewal and decarbonisation strategy.
The newbuildings will feature dual-fuel technology, enabling them to run on both conventional marine fuel and LNG. This capability provides carriers with operational flexibility while meeting international maritime emission regulations. ONE has previously invested in lower-emission vessel technologies, aligning with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) 2030 and 2050 targets.
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has secured a significant market share in LNG-fuelled containership orders in recent years. The South Korean shipyard has expanded its production capacity to meet growing demand from major carriers for fleet modernisation. Industry analysts expect LNG-fuelled ship orders to peak in 2026 and 2027.
ONE's new vessels are part of a fleet expansion expected to deliver between 2027 and 2028. The carrier aims to increase capacity on long-haul routes while improving fuel efficiency and environmental performance. The 15,000 TEU segment has emerged as a popular capacity class on Asia-Europe and Trans-Pacific trades.
The shift towards LNG-fuelled vessels in global container shipping has accelerated as carriers face pressure to reduce their carbon footprint. However, the limited availability of LNG bunkering infrastructure at all ports presents operational challenges. Carriers favour dual-fuel vessels during this transition period.
Key Takeaways:
1. Ocean Network Express has ordered six LNG-fuelled containerships with 15,000 TEU capacity each from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.
2. The vessels are priced at approximately USD 203 million per ship and are expected to deliver between 2027 and 2028.
3. Dual-fuel technology enables the ships to run on both conventional marine fuel and LNG.
4. The order is part of ONE's fleet renewal and IMO decarbonisation compliance strategy.
5. The 15,000 TEU segment has emerged as a popular capacity class on Asia-Europe and Trans-Pacific trades.
