Maersk Tankers places order for up to 10 ammonia carriers

Denmark's Maersk Tankers has ordered up to ten newbuild very large ammonia carriers (VLACs) from South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries.

PHOTO: Getty Images

Japan's Mitsui & Co will co-invest in the first four of the ten 93,000 cbm vessels, Maersk says. The company did not disclose the financial details of the order.

The initial delivery of four vessels is scheduled from late 2026 onwards. The contract also includes an option for six additional vessels, bringing the total to 10. The vessels will be classified by the American Bureau of Shipping.

Maersk plans to collaborate with engine makers MAN Energy Solutions and Hyundai Heavy Industries' Engine Machine Division to enable the vessels to run on ammonia. However, Maersk has not yet confirmed the installation of ammonia-capable engines on these vessels, stating that the decision will depend on both "regulatory and customer support."

The company has not provided details regarding its expectations for receiving this support.

By Debarati Bhattacharjee

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