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South Korea’s major shipbuilders are expanding their special ship divisions to prepare for deeper collaboration with the U.S. Navy, particularly in the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector.
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Hanwha Ocean completed Korea’s first-ever MRO work on a U.S. Navy vessel, while HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and HJ Shipbuilding & Construction are actively recruiting talent and pursuing U.S. contracts.
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The signing of Master Ship Repair Agreements (MSRAs) positions Korean shipyards to play a key role in future U.S. naval vessel maintenance operations.
South Korea’s shipbuilding sector is proactively enhancing its special ship divisions to attract skilled professionals, in anticipation of deeper cooperation with the United States in naval vessel construction and maintenance. This forward-looking workforce strategy aims to position domestic shipyards for long-term growth in the defense and MRO segments, according to Chosunbiz.
Hanwha Ocean Completes Historic U.S. Navy Overhaul Project
On March 13, 2025, Hanwha Ocean completed the overhaul of the U.S. Navy’s replenishment vessel, USNS Wally Schirra, at its Geoje shipyard. The six-month MRO project marked the first time a Korean shipyard performed overhaul services on a U.S. Navy ship—underscoring Korea’s rising reputation in global naval logistics support.
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Adopts Continuous Hiring Strategy
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has transitioned to ongoing recruitment for experienced roles in its special ship division. While headquartered in Dong-gu, Ulsan, the company has also opened a satellite office in Haeundae-gu, Busan, focused on ship design. This decentralized expansion aims to better support the design and development of specialized naval vessels.
U.S.–Korea Defense Collaboration Fuels MRO Market Prospects
Since the Trump administration, the U.S. has shown growing interest in partnering with Korea to strengthen its naval shipbuilding capabilities. Korean shipyards are now preparing to actively compete in the U.S. Navy’s MRO market, recognizing its strategic potential and alignment with their capabilities.
Hanwha Ocean Expands MRO and Proposal Capabilities
Hanwha Ocean recently conducted an experienced hiring campaign across departments such as overseas sales, foreign strategy, MRO operations, project management, and quality assurance. Priority is being given to professionals with experience in U.S. heavy industries and proposal writing for U.S. Navy contracts—signaling a targeted focus on securing American defense work.
Master Ship Repair Agreements Set the Stage for Deeper Engagement
In July 2024, both Hanwha Ocean and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries signed a Master Ship Repair Agreement (MSRA) with the U.S. Navy Supply Systems Command. This agreement is essential for gaining eligibility to perform MRO work on U.S. Navy vessels, and serves as a major step toward expanded involvement in the U.S. naval supply chain.
HJ Shipbuilding & Construction Enters MRO Arena
HJ Shipbuilding & Construction has also entered the MRO market. Since April 2025, it has been operating a dedicated task force to facilitate MSRA acquisition. Traditionally known for building coast guard patrol vessels, the company is now hiring personnel skilled in ship design and weapon systems integration to prepare for U.S. Navy opportunities. It also plans to hire new graduates, reflecting a long-term growth strategy.
South Korea’s shipbuilders are positioning themselves as valuable partners in global naval logistics and repair. With growing technical capabilities, workforce expansion, and strategic U.S. collaborations, they are set to play a leading role in the evolving landscape of defense maritime operations.
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Source: Chosunbiz
