Israel's XT Shipping has placed an order for two 3,160-TEU ships at China Merchants Industry's Weihai yard, marking its return to the newbuilding market, reported Singapore's Splash 247.

The vessels will be fitted with scrubbers and are scheduled for delivery between November 2027 and February 2028, according to shipbuilding sources. Pricing details have not been disclosed.

XT Shipping, the maritime arm of Idan Ofer and Udi Angel's XT Group, operates a diversified fleet including bulk carriers, containerships and car carriers. The company has previously engaged in newbuilding projects and shipping pools.

The order reflects a renewed focus on modern, fuel-efficient tonnage. XT Shipping last commissioned new boxships in 2018, when it ordered six 1,809 TEU vessels from South Korea's HD Hyundai Mipo Dockyard.

Earlier this year, the company sold two containerships of 1,696 - 1,809-TEU to Erasmus Container Lines for US$45 million.

XT Shipping was formerly part of Ofer Holdings Group, which rebranded as XT Group in 2012. The parent firm has interests spanning shipping, logistics, technology and energy.

Other Ofer-linked companies have also been active in the container segment this year. Singapore-based Eastern Pacific Shipping has placed multiple orders for 1,800-TEU and 6,000-TEU vessels at Chinese yards.