HD Hyundai kicks off warship construction project in Peru
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) has made a significant move in the global defense market by launching the Peru Warship Project. This initiative marks a pivotal moment for South Korea’s defense exports, particularly in Latin America. The project was officially inaugurated during a ceremony held at the state-run SIMA Shipyard in Peru. Dignitaries, including Peruvian President Dina Boluarte and Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzén Olaya, were present to witness the steel-cutting and keel-laying ceremonies. These events symbolize the formal commencement of the construction of four naval vessels, which include a frigate, an offshore patrol vessel, and an amphibious landing ship.
A Historic Collaboration
The Peru Warship Project is the result of a substantial defense contract worth 640.6 billion won, awarded to HD HHI in April 2024. This collaboration is part of the Korean government’s Team Korea initiative, which aims to enhance Korea’s defense exports and strengthen international partnerships. During the ceremony, President Boluarte emphasized the importance of this partnership for Peru’s shipbuilding industry. She expressed optimism that the collaboration with HD HHI would modernize the Peruvian Navy and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
Joo Won-ho, head of HD HHI’s Naval & Special Ships Business Unit, echoed the sentiments of the Peruvian leaders. He highlighted that this project signifies the entry of K-defense into Latin America. Joo assured that HD HHI is committed to ensuring the project’s success through technological excellence and mutual trust. This partnership is expected to strengthen defense ties between Korea and Peru, paving the way for future collaborations in the defense sector.
Enhancing Local Capabilities
To further deepen bilateral cooperation, HD HHI has announced plans to host a two-week Naval Architecture Training Program. This program will involve 12 engineers from SIMA Shipyard and will be conducted in partnership with the University of Ulsan. The training aims to enhance local shipbuilding capabilities and foster knowledge transfer between the two nations. Additionally, HD HHI plans to collaborate closely with Peruvian equipment suppliers to ensure that the construction of the naval vessels is localized.
The Peru Warship Project is a key component of HD HHI’s broader Pan-Pacific Belt Vision. This strategy focuses on establishing a global network of defense hubs by building partnerships, localizing ship construction, and standardizing technology transfer in critical regions, including Peru, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, and the United States. As the project progresses, it will not only showcase Korea’s growing role in the global defense industry but also contribute to the modernization of Peru’s naval capabilities.
