https://splash247.com/msc-strikes-10-ship-newbuild-deal-at-hengli-heavy/

https://www.offshore-energy.biz/msc-continues-ordering-spree-with-up-to-18-new-lng-dual-fuel-boxships/

MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has embarked on an ambitious fleet renewal strategy, committing to the construction of up to 18 new containerships. These vessels, all powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), are part of MSC's broader initiative to enhance its environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.

The company has placed an order for six 19,000 TEU boxships with China’s Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (SWS). Each of these vessels, priced at $210 million, will be equipped with dual-fuel engines capable of running on LNG. Delivery of the ships is expected between 2027 and 2028. This order forms a core part of MSC’s fleet expansion as it continues to prioritize LNG as a cleaner alternative to conventional marine fuels.

In a parallel move, MSC has also secured agreements for up to twelve additional containerships from Penglai Jinglu Shipyard, also in China. The order includes eight firm vessels with an option for four more, all of which will have a capacity of 11,500 TEU. The ships, valued at $140 million each, are similarly fitted with LNG dual-fuel engines and will be delivered between 2027 and 2028.These investments underscore MSC's commitment to sustainable shipping solutions and its focus on modernizing its fleet to meet future environmental standards.

https://splash247.com/msc-adds-two-more-ships/

                                         

Mediterranean Shipping Co (MSC), the world's largest containerline, continues its robust activity in the secondhand market as week 16 commences. VesselsValue reports that MSC has acquired 11 ships thus far this year, excluding data from MB Shipbroking, which highlights the recent procurement of two additional vessels. These acquisitions include the 2007-built AS Nadia, boasting a capacity of 3,586 TEU, and the younger AS Ragna, a two-year-old vessel with a capacity of 1,496 TEU, acquired from MPC Capital. Notably, these two additions mark the youngest vessels integrated into MSC's fleet this year. With a remarkable track record of acquiring approximately 350 secondhand ships in less than four years and significant orders for newbuilds, MSC is poised to secure nearly 20% of the global market share in the liner segment. Presently, MSC anticipates the delivery of 108 vessels from Asian shipyards.

https://maritime-executive.com/article/iranian-forces-seize-msc-containership-near-strait-of-hormuz

                                     

Iranian military forces have boarded the MSC Aries, a sizable containership operated by MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, directing it into Iranian waters. While Iranian media identifies the 158,000 dwt vessel as Israeli, specific accusations leading to the seizure remain undisclosed. MSC has confirmed the incident, expressing their commitment to ensuring the safety and secure return of the vessel and its 25 crewmembers. Registered in Portugal and owned by a Zodiac Maritime affiliate, the MSC Aries departed from Khalifa, UAE, bound for India. As it neared the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian troops were deployed onto the containers from an approaching helicopter. 

  The vessel, constructed in 2020, measures 1,200 feet in length with a TEU capacity of 15,000, situated approximately 50 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE, at the time of boarding. Reports indicate that 17 of the crewmembers are Indian nationals, prompting India to request the immediate release of the crew from Iran. The International Chamber of Shipping has condemned the act, citing a violation of international law. This incident follows recent threats made by Iran's Supreme Leader against Israel, with analysts suggesting it could be part of a broader response strategy. Zodiac Maritime's association with Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer has intensified scrutiny, with previous incidents involving Ofer-affiliated vessels targeted by Iran and Houthi militants.