United Arab Shipping Company (UASC) has signed contracts to build some of the world’s largest and greenest container ships – all of which will be classed by DNV. Hyundai Heavy Industries, Korea (HHI) is to build five 18,000 TEU vessels and five 14,000 TEU vessels. The order includes options for one additional 18,000 TEU vessel and six additional 14,000 TEU vessels. All ships will be prepared for easy retrofitting for using Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) fuel in the future, when the related infrastructure is in place.

   The order, the largest in UASC’s history, is worth over US$ 2 billion including all options, and features vessels that will be amongst the largest, most technologically advanced and most environmentally friendly container vessels ever built, according to a UASC press release.

   His Excellency Dr. Al-Ohaly, UASC Board Director, remarked, “UASC makes history today with its largest ever newbuilding order. This is a critical step for the Company to deliver on its long-term growth objectives. In addition, UASC hopes to set new benchmarks for fuel economy and environmental performance.”

   “I’m pleased and proud that DNV has been selected as the preferred class for these huge and advanced ships,” says Henrik O. Madsen, DNV Group CEO. “We have actively supported the owner and yard up to the contract signing. Through our expertise and technology, we have been able to aid in the development of these new ships, which represent a major leap forward in terms of size and operational excellence.”

   The ships will be designed according to the latest cutting-edge technology. In line with UASC’s vision of being an environmentally focused ship owner, the vessels will also be designed ‘LNG ready’.

   The vessels will be optimised for an Asia – Middle East – North Europe trade. Their optimal speed window will be 16 – 18 knots. The 14,000 and 18,000 TEU newbuildings are scheduled for delivery from late 2014 and from the first half of 2015, respectively.