A.P. Moller-Maersk has confirmed orders for 26 large container vessels, marking a major expansion of its newbuilding programme as the carrier moves to strengthen and renew its fleet.
The 26 vessels will each have a capacity of 18,600 TEUs, adding a combined 483,600 TEUs of new capacity to Maersk’s orderbook. The ships are scheduled for delivery in 2029 and 2030.
The newbuildings will feature dual-fuel engines capable of operating on LNG and conventional bunker fuel, supporting Maersk’s strategy of increasing fuel flexibility while preparing its fleet for lower-emission operations. The carrier has been ordering dual-fuel vessels as part of its longer-term fleet renewal programme.
The latest order significantly increases Maersk’s future fleet capacity at a time when major container carriers are expanding their orderbooks and preparing for changes in global trade patterns. The company has previously highlighted the need for fleet renewal and greater flexibility in deploying large vessels across its network.
Maersk had already ordered eight 18,600-TEU vessels from China’s New Times Shipbuilding in February, with deliveries planned for 2029 and 2030. Those ships were described as offering greater deployment flexibility compared with the largest vessels currently entering the market.
The 26-ship programme will give Maersk additional capacity to support future network requirements while replacing older tonnage. It also reflects the carrier’s continued investment in dual-fuel technology as the container shipping industry responds to tighter environmental requirements and evolving fuel options.
The company has not disclosed the total value of the latest 26-vessel contracts or all shipyard details. The programme nevertheless represents a substantial increase in Maersk’s newbuilding commitments and is expected to shape its fleet capacity through the end of the decade.