US Shipping Partners could be facing a ratings relegation in the wake of its mega order at San Diego’s Nassco shipyard.

Moody’s today placed the company on review for possible downgrade, citing the company’s ‘major fleet expansion program’ which includes both the Nassco ships and five new articulated tug barges (ATBs).

It is currently rated Ba3.

Moody’s said it would be assessing the company’s ability to manage multiple shipbuilding programs.

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