HD Hyundai Initiates Warship Construction Project in Peru as K-Defense Expands

HD Hyundai Begins Warship Construction in Peru

In a significant move for K-Defense, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) has officially commenced construction on four new military vessels at Peru's SIMA Shipyard. This milestone event took place on January 10, 2025, and represents a key moment in the company's expansion into the Latin American defense sector. The vessels being constructed include a frigate, an offshore patrol vessel, and an amphibious landing ship, all designed to bolster the capabilities of the Peruvian Navy.

The launch ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Peru's President Dina Boluarte, Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzen Olaya, Defense Minister Walter Astudillo, and Navy leadership. Their presence highlighted the importance of this project not only for Peru but also for regional security as K-Defense strengthens its foothold in Latin America.

During the ceremony, the cutting of steel plates and the laying of the keel marked the official start of the construction activities, underscoring the project's momentum. HD HHI's commitment to utilizing advanced design techniques and shipbuilding expertise from South Korea will ensure that these vessels meet the critical operational requirements of the Peruvian Navy.

The total contract value for this defense export deal is estimated at approximately KRW 640.6 billion, awarded to HD HHI in April 2024. This initiative is made possible through a collaborative effort between the Korean government and private enterprises, reflecting the 'Team Korea' initiative aimed at enhancing global competitiveness in defense technologies.

President Boluarte expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "This marks a very important milestone in the history of Peru's shipbuilding industry. We expect this project with HD HHI to promote the modernization of the Peruvian Navy and contribute to the nation's economic growth."

Joo Won-ho, the head of the Naval Special Ships Business Unit at HD HHI, emphasized that this project represents K-Defense's entry into Latin America. He affirmed the company’s dedication to achieving project success through technological excellence and fostering trust, ultimately strengthening defense cooperation between Korea and Peru.

In a bid to enhance local capabilities, HD HHI will be hosting twelve Peruvian engineers from the SIMA shipyard for a two-week Naval Architecture Training Program starting January 13. This initiative marks a significant step in promoting knowledge transfer and developing Peruvian expertise in shipbuilding.

Beyond this project, HD HHI has ambitious goals to create a global defense network under its Pan-Pacific Belt Vision strategy. This includes forming strategic partnerships and establishing localized ship construction systems in various regions, including Peru, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, and the United States.

As HD Hyundai Heavy Industries formally embarks on this venture, the commitment to local collaboration and technology transfer is expected to not only enhance the capabilities of the Peruvian Navy but also contribute positively to the broader goals of K-Defense's international expansion.