A long-term shipping agreement has been secured between NORDEN and LKAB, marking a move into more specialised maritime operations while reinforcing a focus on stability and customer-driven services. The deal centres on a Contract of Affreightment lasting up to a decade and is supported by a fleet expansion that includes two newly commissioned vessels.
Under the terms of the agreement, materials will be transported from Greece to northern Sweden over a period that could extend to 10 years. To fulfil this commitment, the Danish shipping group has placed an order for two multipurpose ships, each with a deadweight of 23,000 tonnes, from Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group, with delivery anticipated in 2028.
The move reflects a broader effort to deepen involvement in long-term contractual shipping arrangements while broadening operational capabilities in challenging environments, particularly in regions affected by seasonal ice conditions. By investing in vessels designed specifically for such routes, the company is positioning itself to better meet the demands of clients operating in northern climates.
“This transaction supports our strategy of growing long-term business with more stable earnings characteristics. At the same time, the addition of two ice-class vessels expands the solutions we can offer customers with transport needs in northern and ice-prone waters.”
– Jan Rindbo, CEO of NORDEN.
The vessels will be constructed to Finnish-Swedish Ice Class 1A standards, allowing them to operate reliably in harsh winter conditions. In addition to their cargo capacity, each ship will be fitted with dual 80-tonne cranes, enabling flexible handling of a wide range of goods. The design also incorporates fuel-efficient systems and the ability to run on biofuel, contributing to lower-emission transport options.
Once delivered, the ships are expected to integrate with the existing fleet, enhancing service reliability for customers requiring access to ports where ice conditions can disrupt conventional shipping. This increased capability is also likely to open opportunities to serve a wider range of industrial clients with similar logistical challenges.
LKAB, recognised as Europe’s largest producer of iron ore, continues to focus on developing more sustainable solutions for the steel sector, while Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group, part of China State Shipbuilding Corporation, brings experience in delivering specialised vessels to both domestic and international markets.
If you want to meet companies expanding capabilities in long-term maritime contracts and specialised vessel segments, contact us today about our MTB Marine or Shipyard events.
