South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean Co., a major shipbuilder, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with POSCO, the country’s top steelmaker, to jointly develop ultra-high strength steel for advanced naval vessels.
This collaboration is aimed at boosting the global competitiveness of South Korea’s naval shipbuilding industry and introducing new technologies that enhance strength, safety, and durability in warship construction.
Development of Giga-Grade Steel
The centerpiece of the partnership is the development of a “giga-grade” steel plate, which reportedly has up to four times the strength of conventional steel. This next-generation material is designed to meet the demands of modern naval platforms, including warships and unmanned surface vessels. The steel will not only provide superior structural integrity but also ensure ballistic protection and enhanced welding safety—both critical factors in naval defense technology.
Strategic Collaboration and Future Goals
Under the MOU, Hanwha Ocean and POSCO will collaborate across six technical areas, ranging from steel materials and applications to hull application technologies and welding methods. According to Hanwha Ocean’s senior vice president of naval ship design, Kim Il-hong, the partnership represents the beginning of full-scale preparations to expand into the global advanced naval ship market. The joint R&D project is expected to be completed within two to three years, marking a significant step toward positioning the companies as leading providers of total naval solutions.
The agreement between Hanwha Ocean and POSCO highlights South Korea’s ambition to strengthen its foothold in the global defense and shipbuilding sector. By developing giga-grade steel, both companies aim to push the boundaries of naval technology, ensuring stronger, safer, and more efficient vessels. This partnership not only showcases technological innovation but also represents a strategic move to secure a competitive edge in the evolving defense industry.
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Source: YONHAP NEWS AGENCY
