2 weeks Ago By Lee Jun-sung
HJ Shipbuilding and Construction (HJSC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Hanwha Systems on October 31 to strengthen their collaboration for entering the international naval vessel market. Under this agreement, the two companies will jointly pursue the export of naval ships and related equipment. HJSC will provide the essential technology for the construction of vessels, while Hanwha Systems will supply critical equipment such as combat systems and radar.
HJSC will construct vessels, including the Navy's Chamsuri-class patrol boats (PKMR) and Yoon Youngha-class patrol ships (PKG), as well as the Coast Guard's Haewoo-class (300-ton), Taeguk-class (500-ton), Hangang-class (1,000-ton), Jemin-class (1,500-ton), and Pacific-class (3,000-ton) patrol vessels. The MOU aims to rejuvenate HJ Heavy Industries' presence in international markets. Designated as Korea's first naval defense contractor in 1974, the company exported four missile boats to Indonesia in 1979 and has since gained recognition for its technological prowess by exporting to India, Thailand, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Particularly in the small to medium-sized ship sector, they boast unmatched competitiveness, having secured orders to build all of the Navy's new high-speed patrol vessels. Recently, the company has secured projects such as the performance upgrade of the Navy's Dokdo-class amphibious assault ship and the construction of a 3,000-ton coast guard vessel, establishing itself as a comprehensive defense industry leader capable of design, construction, performance enhancement, and logistics support. "Through cooperation with Hanwha Systems, we will leverage our strengths in combat systems and radar to further expand K-defense exports internationally," said an official from HJSC.
"We plan to achieve new milestones in overseas markets, drawing on our experience as the country's first naval ship exporter.".
