Hanwha Group to Build Nuclear-Powered Submarines for US Navy
Hanwha Group has announced its readiness to participate in the construction of nuclear-powered submarines for the US Navy at its Philadelphia shipyard. This initiative is part of a larger US-Korea shipbuilding collaboration known as the “Make American Shipbuilding Great Again” (MASGA) project. The announcement follows US President Donald Trump’s recognition of Hanwha Group as a partner in developing a new class of frigates for the Navy, highlighting the South Korean conglomerate’s role in revitalizing American naval shipbuilding with the support of allied nations.
During a media briefing on Monday, Hanwha’s US executives discussed the progress of the MASGA project and the development plans for the Philadelphia shipyard. This event marked one year since Hanwha acquired the facility for $100 million. The MASGA project aims to rejuvenate the American shipbuilding industry through a $150 billion investment fund backed by the South Korean government, positioning Hanwha as a key industrial partner in this endeavor.
Strategic Developments and Future Plans
Tom Anderson, president of US shipbuilding at Hanwha Defense USA and a retired US Navy rear admiral, shared that the company has already begun preparations for nuclear submarine construction. These preparations include expanding the workforce, enhancing productivity, investing in facilities, and transferring technology based on best practices from South Korean shipyards. Anderson emphasized Hanwha’s capability to execute the project, stating, “Hanwha has a clear understanding of what is required to build US nuclear-powered submarines at its Philly Shipyard.”
Alex Wong, Hanwha Group’s global chief strategy officer, noted that there is a growing consensus within the Trump administration regarding the need to expand shipbuilding capabilities through collaboration with allies like South Korea. He stated, “Once each government decides what type of submarines they want to build at Hanwha Philly Shipyard, Hanwha is fully prepared to respond accordingly.”
Hanwha Ocean To Inject Additional $70 Million Into US Shipyard
The US Navy aims to modernize its undersea fleet by expanding its Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines to a total of 66 vessels by 2054, with 24 already completed. Achieving this target will require the construction of approximately two submarines per year. Hanwha Philly Shipyard has been identified as a potential production site to help meet this demand.
Despite Hanwha’s lack of prior experience in building nuclear-powered submarines, Anderson expressed confidence in the Virginia-class design, which is mature and validated, allowing newcomers to quickly develop their capabilities. He also highlighted the strategic location of the Philadelphia shipyard, which is near existing US shipyards that are currently constructing Virginia submarines. This proximity facilitates direct collaboration and efficient transportation of parts and modules.
Anderson concluded by stating that the goal is to combine Hanwha’s extensive shipbuilding expertise with the US Navy’s experience in designing and operating nuclear-powered submarines. By leveraging a broader supply network that includes South Korean shipbuilding partners, Hanwha aims to improve production schedules for submarines built for the US Navy.
