- Hanwha Shipping transitions from a test platform to a full-fledged U.S.-based shipping operator.
- The company has placed five vessel orders, including VLCCs and LNG carriers, from Hanwha Ocean.
- Hanwha plans to align operations with new U.S. LNG shipping regulations and strengthen its shipbuilding-to-shipping ecosystem.
Hanwha Shipping, originally launched to test next-generation vessels developed by Hanwha Ocean, has now fully pivoted toward becoming a ship-owning and operating company. This strategic shift responds to increasing demand in the U.S. for transporting vital raw materials such as LNG and crude oil.
Fleet Expansion Through Hanwha Ocean
As of July 9, industry sources confirmed that Hanwha Shipping has placed an order with Hanwha Ocean for a 300,000 DWT very large crude carrier (VLCC), scheduled for delivery by March 2027. This brings the total to five vessel orders: two VLCCs placed in 2023 and two LNG carriers ordered this year, valued at 732.2 billion won, with delivery by late September 2027.
Green Technologies and Scrubbers Onboard
All ships ordered will be outfitted with eco-friendly features, including exhaust gas scrubbers to minimize emissions. Hanwha Ocean’s digital and green maritime innovations will first be tested aboard Hanwha Shipping vessels before broader deployment, ensuring quality control and technological readiness.
Strategic Response to U.S. LNG RulesNew rules announced by the U.S. Trade
Representative require a portion of LNG exports from 2028 onward to be carried by U.S.-built vessels. Hanwha Shipping’s move toward direct ownership and operation of LNG and oil tankers aligns with these regulations. While current ships are being built in Geoje, South Korea, future builds may take place in the U.S., reflecting Hanwha Group’s long-term vision for a dual-country shipping presence.
Alignment with U.S. Maritime Policy
The company’s U.S. focus complements the Trump administration’s broader policy push to revive domestic shipbuilding and maritime capabilities. By building and potentially operating U.S.-flagged ships, Hanwha contributes to the creation of a localized maritime supply chain.
Outlook for LNG and Multi-Cargo Operations
Hanwha Shipping CEO Ryan Lynch emphasized the company’s ambitions, stating, “We expect there will be a need for five to seven U.S.-flagged LNG carriers by 2030. Hanwha Shipping will grow into a U.S.-based owner capable of transporting oil, LNG, LPG, and containers.”
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Source: Chosunbiz
