Hanwha Defense USA says Philadelphia shipyard workforce has doubled to nearly 2,500, aims to restore U.S. Navy shipbuilding at historic yard
Hanwha, a leading global defense company, has significantly increased its workforce at the Philadelphia shipyard, now boasting nearly 2,500 employees since its acquisition of the facility in 2024. This strategic move is part of Hanwha’s commitment to investing in training, production capacity, and revitalizing the historic yard to support U.S. Navy shipbuilding efforts.
Acting Secretary of the Navy Visits Hanwha Philly Shipyard
Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao recently visited the Philadelphia shipyard, where he engaged in discussions with executives from Hanwha Defense USA and Hanwha Philly Shipyard. The talks centered around industrial investments, site expansion, and the necessary workforce enhancements to elevate U.S. shipbuilding output.
Cao emphasized the crucial role of domestic shipbuilding in maintaining America’s maritime strength, highlighting the significance of building ships efficiently to meet national requirements. He acknowledged the potential for expanding shipbuilding capacity, strengthening the workforce, and increasing the number of operational vessels.
Hanwha’s Strategic Investment in U.S. Naval Shipbuilding
Hanwha Defense USA is strategically investing in the Philadelphia shipyard to meet the growing demand for additional construction capacity and enhance fleet readiness for the U.S. Navy. By leveraging Hanwha’s cutting-edge technology and training programs, the company aims to position the site as a competitive player in naval shipbuilding projects.
Michael Coulter, CEO of Hanwha Defense USA, expressed gratitude for Secretary Cao’s visit and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to reviving naval shipbuilding at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Hanwha’s vision aligns with the historical significance of the yard, known for delivering world-class vessels to American sailors for over two centuries.
The Philadelphia shipyard has already completed the delivery of four National Security Multi-Mission Vessels to the U.S. Maritime Administration, with the final ship in the class scheduled for completion next year. The activation of the lead vessel, TS Empire State, for a federal mission in the Indo-Pacific region underscores the facility’s operational capabilities and contributions to national security.
As Hanwha Philly Shipyard continues to expand its workforce, invest in training, and enhance shipbuilding capacity, David Kim, CEO of the shipyard, emphasizes the company’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology and expertise to meet the growing demand for U.S. naval construction.
U.S. Senator Chris Coons, who joined the visit, recognizes the transformative impact of increased Navy shipbuilding at the Philly shipyard, both regionally and militarily. He underscores the importance of keeping pace with global shipbuilding trends, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, to uphold freedom of navigation and maritime security.
Hanwha Philly Shipyard, situated at the confluence of the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers in the historic Philadelphia Navy Yard, boasts expansive infrastructure, including two of the largest graving docks on the U.S. East Coast. With a track record of delivering significant Jones Act vessels since 2000, Hanwha aims to leverage its industrial base, skilled workforce, and global shipbuilding experience to support future U.S. naval construction projects.
