Hanwha Ocean said on the 1st that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with POSCO to develop next-generation ultra-high-strength steel for naval vessels.
Based on the memorandum of understanding, the two companies will cooperate in six areas, including steel and application technology, welding materials, welding technology, and hull application technology.
Next-generation steel for naval vessels can simultaneously ensure the structural safety, protection performance, and welded joint safety of maritime weapons systems such as combat ships and unmanned surface vessels.
They aim to complete research and development within 2 to 3 years, and it can significantly reduce the weight of ships while greatly improving ballistic performance.
In particular, surface ships with hulls exposed above the waterline are expected to benefit greatly from applying ultra-high-strength steel, which has four times the strength of ordinary steel.
Kim Il-hong, executive director in charge of special ship design at Hanwha Ocean, said, "We have begun full-scale preparations to enter the global advanced naval vessel market together with POSCO," and added, "Through collaboration, we will deliver world-class naval vessels."
Song Yeon-gyun, head of the Steel Solution Research Institute at POSCO, also said, "Through this MOU, we will expedite the development of next-generation giga-grade steel for naval vessels through close cooperation."