SWIRE Projects has chartered three handysize multipurpose vessels from shipowner R. Braren.

The 28,000-DWT vessels were built between 2010 and 2011 at Huanghai shipyard, China.

They will be renamed Pacific Honour, Pacific Humility and Pacific Hero. The vessels will be chartered on a firm three-year period, with the option to extend.

Delivery is expected to commence from the fourth quarter of this year and into the beginning of 2023.

Swire Projects general manager Namir Khanbabi said his latest charter arrangement fits with the plan to expand the company’s MPP fleet.

“These workhorse vessels will take Swire Projects’ growing MPP fleet to 15 vessels by year-end,” Mr Khanbabi said.

“We are delighted to work with R. Braren as owners and look forward to forging a new and long-lasting relationship.”

Mr Khanbabi described the vessels as “very versatile” and capable of moving a wide range of project cargo.

According to Swire Projects, the vessels are ideal for carrying wind-energy turbines, tubulars, power generators, plant and machinery and other related equipment, alongside unitised cargoes and bulky large items.

“This latest charter agreement is part of a longer-term business strategy to expand in our targeted markets and sectors by procuring suitable tonnage from high-quality owners,” Mr Khanbabi said.

That also enables our dedicated team of experienced specialists to deploy the assets optimally to deliver value for our customers and other stakeholders alike. Our vision is to be a leading provider of innovative project solutions and our customers’ partner of choice.”

In November last year Swire announced the long-term charter of six MPP heavy lift vessels with Nordic Project and Finance.