Hanwha Ocean Expands U.S. Shipbuilding Ties
Hanwha Ocean has solidified its commitment to advancing naval shipbuilding collaboration with the United States through the signing of one Professional Services Agreement and two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) at the inauguration of the Korea-U.S. Shipbuilding Partnership Center in Washington, D.C.
The agreement focuses on the design of the Global Fast Sealift (GFS) in partnership with Leidos, building on an earlier MOU established in April. This strategic partnership aims to enhance U.S. shipbuilding capacity by leveraging Hanwha Ocean’s naval capabilities alongside Leidos’ extensive experience in ship design and engineering.
Gibbs & Cox, a subsidiary of Leidos, has played a significant role in the design of over 70% of U.S. Navy surface combatants since World War II, making it a pivotal partner in this initiative. The GFS is set to provide essential support for commercial shipping in peacetime while ensuring rapid military sealift in times of conflict, thereby serving both economic and strategic interests across naval vessel markets.
Additionally, Hanwha Ocean entered an MOU with Hanwha Philly Shipyard (HPSI) and Delaware County Community College (DCCC) to foster workforce development. This collaboration aims to address the pressing workforce needs in the U.S. shipbuilding sector through the implementation of instructor training programs and other initiatives targeted at cultivating skilled professionals in shipbuilding.
DCCC, based in eastern Pennsylvania, is recognized for its high-quality educational offerings and technical training, and it serves as the Related Technical Instruction provider for HPSI’s Registered Apprenticeship programs.
Furthermore, Hanwha Ocean has signed an MOU for Supply Chain Cooperation with HPSI, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, and the Greater Philadelphia Growth Partnership. This ambitious endeavor is designed to enhance local supplier networks and promote collaborative approaches within the regional industrial ecosystem, ultimately fortifying the U.S. shipbuilding supply chain.
“Hanwha Ocean is fully prepared to contribute to the revitalization of the U.S. shipbuilding industry and the continued advancement of Korea’s shipbuilding sector,” stated Insub Jung, President and Head of Management Support Office at Hanwha Ocean. “Building on our local production footprint, we will expand cooperation in areas most critical to the U.S.”
About Hanwha Ocean
Hanwha Ocean is a leading global entity in the shipbuilding and offshore industries, known for its state-of-the-art designs and eco-friendly technology in LNG carriers. The company has been a pioneer in producing a diverse range of vessels since 1973 and is committed to advancing solutions for maritime decarbonization.
About Leidos
Leidos is recognized as a leader in providing innovative digital and mission solutions to government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, the company reported approximately $17.2 billion in annual revenues for the fiscal year ending January 2, 2026.
About Hanwha Philly Shipyard, Inc.
Hanwha Philly Shipyard has established itself as a premier shipbuilder in the U.S., contributing to around 50% of all large ocean-going U.S. Jones Act commercial ships delivered since 2000.
About Delaware County Community College
DCCC is an accredited two-year college offering high-quality education and workforce development, recognized as a Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training since 2021.
About the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber works to position Greater Philadelphia as a top business destination, driving inclusive economic growth across the region.
About the Greater Philadelphia Growth Partnership
This initiative aims to enhance job quality and strengthen economic competitiveness in Southeastern Pennsylvania, uniting various leaders to drive growth and opportunities.
