STX Engine has secured its first direct overseas market entry by signing a contract with China’s NTS Shipyard to supply marine engines for up to 14 ultra-large container ships commissioned by Maersk. The agreement utilizes a hybrid propulsion strategy, providing each vessel with two eco-friendly dual-fuel engines and two diesel engines to balance environmental compliance with cost efficiency. This major milestone validates the company’s five decades of manufacturing expertise and strengthens its position in the global green shipping market.
Seoul, South Korea | July 30, 2026 – Marking a major milestone in its global expansion, STX Engine has announced its first direct entry into the overseas marine engine market through a high-profile contract with China’s NTS Shipyard.
The agreement involves supplying marine propulsion systems for a total of 14 ultra-large container ships (8 firm, 6 option) in the 19,000 TEU class, commissioned by global shipping leader Maersk.
Innovative Hybrid Engine Supply Strategy
The cornerstone of the contract is a unique hybrid engine supply strategy engineered to balance strict environmental compliance with commercial efficiency.
- Dual-Fuel and Diesel Mix: STX Engine will alternately supply two eco-friendly dual-fuel engines and two diesel engines for each vessel.
- Operational Versatility: By utilizing both gas and diesel propulsion modes, the configuration satisfies the rigorous demands of both shipyards and shipowners, meeting stringent International Maritime Organization (IMO) emissions targets while optimizing overall capital and operational expenditures.
Industry experts note that selection by a conservative global titan like Maersk validates STX Engine’s world-class technological reliability. Building on half a century of manufacturing expertise, the company leveraged its proven domestic track record of supplying dual-fuel engines to secure the competitive international bid.
“This contract is the result of our engine manufacturing know-how and eco-friendly technology, accumulated over the past half-century, being recognized on the global stage,” an STX Engine official stated, outlining ambitions to scale further across international markets.
About STX Engine
Established in 1976, STX Engine has spent nearly 50 years anchoring South Korea’s maritime and industrial manufacturing sectors. Specializing in high-tech medium-speed diesel engines, where it commands roughly 70% of the domestic market, the company serves diverse industries:
- Defense & Security: Powering major national defense assets, including K1A1 tanks, K-9 self-propelled howitzers, and naval vessels.
- Civilian & Marine: Supplying propulsion for container ships, LNG carriers, oil tankers, fishing vessels, and locomotives, alongside standalone diesel power plants.
- Environmental Solutions: Expanding beyond traditional combustion to alternative energy and environmental infrastructure, including solar and wind turbine systems, Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD), electrostatic precipitators, and De-NOx facilities.
With over 90% of its marine diesel engines and power plants exported across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, STX Engine continues to drive innovation toward sustainable global maritime operations.
Source: STX Engine