Hanwha Ocean Plans Major US Shipbuilding Expansion | Mariner News
Hanwha Ocean is making significant moves to strengthen its presence in the United States, actively exploring a major expansion of its shipbuilding operations. Following its acquisition of Philly Shipyard, the South Korean giant is now considering purchasing a second U.S. shipbuilder to boost its capacity and meet growing demand in the American maritime sector. This strategic push underscores Hanwha Ocean’s commitment to becoming a key player in the nation’s defense industrial base.
Strategic Growth in American Shipyards
An executive from Hanwha Defense USA confirmed active discussions to enhance the Philly Shipyard, which already sees a planned $5 billion investment. However, recognizing the need for more space and diversified capabilities, Hanwha is seriously contemplating acquiring another U.S. shipyard in a different region within the next few years. This proactive approach aims to capitalize on substantial opportunities, including potential deals with the Pentagon for various vessel types.
Advancing Naval Technology and Unmanned Systems
Hanwha’s expansion isn’t just about traditional shipbuilding; it also includes a strong focus on advanced naval technology. The company is in “active conversation” with the Pentagon regarding future work on surface, subsurface, and unmanned vessels. Furthermore, a recent agreement with American autonomous-vessel company HavocAI highlights their ambition to compete in the medium-sized unmanned warship space, exploring the construction of innovative autonomous surface vessels. This diversification positions Hanwha Ocean at the forefront of modern naval solutions.
