PHILADELPHIA, July 2, 2018: Matson named the largest containership ever built in the United States at the Philly Shipyard last weekend.

The 3,600 TEU containership Daniel K. Inouye, in honor of Hawaii's late senior US Senator, is the first of two new ships being built for Honolulu-based Matson by Philly Shipyard for a total of US$418 million, and is the first of four new vessels the Pacific trades specialist will put into its Hawaii service during the next two years.

"This is a proud day for all of us at Matson," said Matt Cox, company chairman and CEO. "Over our first 136 years, Matson's fleet has evolved from sailing ships to larger steamers to diesel power, consistent with changes in technology and always evolving in step with the needs of a growing Hawaii economy.

"This new vessel, designed specifically to serve Hawaii and built with LNG-compatible engines, is the next generation of vessel and sets a new standard for cargo transportation in Hawaii. It also symbolizes Matson's continuing commitment to serving our Island home in the most efficient, effective and environmentally sound way into the future," he added.

Matson invited Irene Hirano Inouye, Sen. Inouye's wife, to officially name the vessel by breaking a bottle of champagne against its hull.

At 51,400 tonnes, the 850-foot long containership is Matson's largest vessel and will enter service in September this year.