On the 2nd, Hanwha Ocean and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, the largest rivals in the field of vessel exports, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, declaring "One Team." This MOU includes HD Hyundai Heavy Industries overseeing the export business of surface vessels, while Hanwha Ocean is in charge of the underwater vessel export business, supporting each other. The aim is to maximize the strengths of the shipbuilding companies and enhance the efficiency of business promotion through resource allocation and technology sharing.
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration actively supported smooth communication between the two corporations during the MOU signing process. Both corporations prioritized national interests and the establishment of peaceful global maritime security with their goal of entering the global vessel market.
This MOU is seen as the first step toward maximizing synergy through competition in the domestic defense industry. As various countries strive to strengthen their naval capabilities, it has been pointed out that close communication and collaboration between the government and shipbuilding companies are essential for South Korea's excellent vessels to enter the global market. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration, Hanwha Ocean, and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries have been working on systematic cooperation plans.
Defense Acquisition Program Administration Chief Seok Jong-gun noted, "I hope that the signing of the MOU will provide a foundation for the South Korean defense industry to foster mutual growth and become a turning point to shine on the global stage," and added, "The government will also fully support One Team in the export of 'K-vessels' and further advance global maritime security."