en.Wedoany.com Reported - CMA CGM Group has signed a letter of intent with China's Yangzijiang Shipbuilding to order a new batch of ultra-large LNG dual-fuel container vessels. The cooperation between the two parties is still at the intent stage and has not yet been confirmed as a formal shipbuilding contract.

This letter of intent continues the cooperation between the two parties in the ultra-large container vessel segment. In 2023, CMA CGM Group placed an order with Yangzijiang Shipbuilding for 10 24,000 TEU-class LNG dual-fuel container vessels, to be built by Yangzijiang Xinfu, a subsidiary of Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, with delivery scheduled progressively from 2026 to 2027. This order also marked Yangzijiang Shipbuilding's first construction of 24,000 TEU-class LNG dual-fuel container vessels.

The lead vessel, "CMA CGM NOTRE DAME," began construction in November 2024 and was delivered on May 15, 2026, subsequently commencing its maiden voyage. The second vessel, "CMA CGM PANTHEON," completed its delivery signing on July 21 and subsequently departed the shipyard. With the first two vessels entering the delivery phase, the original 10-vessel series has transitioned from concentrated construction to phased delivery.

The vessels in the existing series measure approximately 400 meters in length overall and 61.3 meters in beam, with a maximum container capacity exceeding 24,000 TEU. They are equipped with LNG dual-fuel main engines and membrane-type fuel tanks. Among them, "CMA CGM PANTHEON" has a maximum container capacity of 24,212 TEU and can provide power and ventilation support for up to 1,600 reefer containers simultaneously. The vessels are also fitted with wind deflectors, an energy management system, and an optimized hull structure.

In the first half of 2026, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding secured new orders for 38 vessels valued at $1.75 billion; as of the end of June, its order book stood at 256 vessels valued at $22.4 billion, with delivery slots scheduled through 2030. Its order book includes 151 container vessels, with 2029 slots nearly fully booked and 2030 slots already open.

The number of vessels, container capacity, propulsion system suppliers, and delivery arrangements corresponding to this letter of intent remain to be confirmed in the formal shipbuilding contract.