Philadelphia, PA —  Hanwha Philly Shipyard, Inc. (HPSI) has begun hull assembly on the first of three next-generation “Aloha Class” containerships for Matson, Inc., marking a major step in a fleet modernization program for delivery in 2027–2028.

At a keel-laying ceremony, a 420-metric-ton engine room block was lowered into the dry dock, with executives from both companies placing ceremonial coins beneath it for good luck. The 854-foot vessels will carry 3,600 TEU, operate above 23 knots, and feature dual-fuel LNG-capable engines and a fuel-efficient hull design. They will replace older ships serving Hawaii, Guam, and the China–Long Beach Express route.

Matson CEO Matt Cox said the project supports 1,500 U.S. shipyard jobs and strengthens the company’s Jones Act fleet. Following Hanwha’s 2024 acquisition, HPSI is leveraging South Korean shipbuilding know-how to bolster U.S. competitiveness in large-vessel construction.