HD Hyundai Secures Key U.S. Navy Overhaul Contract
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has clinched a significant maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) contract for the U.S. Navy’s cargo supply ship, USNS Cesar Chavez. This development marks a pivotal moment in the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its footprint in the U.S. Navy ship maintenance sector as part of the Make American Shipbuilding Great Again (MASGA) initiative. Scheduled maintenance is set to commence on January 19, with the vessel expected to be delivered back to the Navy by March.
Details of the Overhaul Contract
On January 7, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries announced that it has been awarded the regular overhaul contract for the USNS Cesar Chavez, a 41,000-ton military support vessel that has been in service since 2012. The ship measures 210 meters in length, 32 meters in width, and stands 9.4 meters tall. The maintenance work will take place at a wharf near the company’s Medium-sized Ship Business Division in Ulsan, South Korea.
The overhaul will involve meticulous maintenance on over 100 components, including the hull, propulsion systems, electrical systems, and auxiliary equipment. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure the vessel meets the Navy’s operational standards upon its return. The contract reflects HD Hyundai’s commitment to delivering high-quality service and enhancing its capabilities within the U.S. Navy’s ship maintenance market.
Previously, the company completed a successful MRO project for the USNS Alan Shepard, which was contracted last August. The Alan Shepard underwent extensive maintenance, initially requiring work on about 60 items, but ultimately saw over 100 additional items identified during the process. The vessel was delivered back to the Navy on January 6, with officials expressing satisfaction with the quality of the work performed.
Future Plans and Strategic Goals
Joo Won-ho, president of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and head of the Naval & Medium-sized Ship Business Division, emphasized the company’s commitment to leading the U.S. ship MRO sector. He stated, “We have successfully completed our first U.S. Navy ship MRO project based on unrivaled technology and expertise.” The company aims to enhance its competitiveness by integrating its existing naval technology and expertise with the facilities and workforce of its Medium-sized Ship Business Division, particularly following its merger with HD Hyundai Mipo at the end of last year.
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As HD Hyundai Heavy Industries continues to build its presence in the U.S. Navy ship maintenance market, the successful execution of these contracts will be crucial. The company’s focus on quality and efficiency positions it as a strong partner for the U.S. Navy, paving the way for future collaborations in military support vessel maintenance.
