Maersk Line will defend its position as the world’s leading container carrier with a fresh wave of orders for ultra large boxships (ULCs).

The liner giant is poised to splash out close to $1bn on its first order for megasize vessels since placing a groundbreaking order for “EEE”-class vessels three years ago.

Industry players say the Danish company is planning to book up to half-a-dozen ships of 19,000 teu with South Korea’s major yards.

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