Will Hanwha Collaborate with the US Navy for New Frigates?
Synopsis
In a significant announcement, President Trump reveals that South Korea's Hanwha will partner with the US Navy to build new frigate warships. This collaboration aims to enhance military capabilities through innovative shipbuilding, marking a pivotal moment in US-South Korea defense relations.
Key Takeaways
US-South Korea collaboration in shipbuilding is strengthening.
Hanwha is investing US$5 billion in the US.
The new vessels will be part of the Trump-class frigates.
Production capacity at Hanwha Philly Shipyard will significantly increase.
This initiative is part of a broader commitment to enhance military capabilities .
Washington, Dec 23 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump has announced that Hanwha of South Korea will collaborate with the US Navy to construct new frigate warships while unveiling plans for a new "Trump-class" of battleships.
This announcement aligns with South Korea's aim to enhance shipbuilding partnerships with the United States through key players like Hanwha Ocean Co, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.
During a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump remarked, "Last week, the Navy revealed a new class of frigates, and they are collaborating with South Korean company Hanwha."
On Friday, the U.S. Navy unveiled plans for a new class of combat vessels designed to be more compact and agile, serving as a complement to larger, multi-mission warships.
Trump praised Hanwha as a "good company," highlighting its recent decision to invest in the Philadelphia naval shipyard, seemingly referencing the Philly Shipyard.
In August, Hanwha Group declared its intention to invest US$5 billion into the shipyard as part of South Korea's broader $150 billion commitment for U.S. shipbuilding collaboration under a trade agreement established during the Trump administration.
During the press conference, Trump revealed that the U.S. Navy will construct two new powerful battleships as part of the envisioned "Golden Fleet."
Previously, Hanwha Group, a South Korean conglomerate spanning chemicals to shipbuilding, announced plans to invest 7 trillion won (US$5 billion) into its U.S. shipyard following a recent summit between President Lee Jae Myung and Donald Trump.
This investment aims to enhance production capabilities at the Hanwha Philly Shipyard in Philadelphia and promote bilateral cooperation in shipbuilding under the initiative titled "Make American Shipbuilding Great Again" (MASGA), as stated by the group.
Hanwha made this announcement during a ceremony at the shipyard attended by President Lee for the christening of the State of Maine, a National Security Multi-mission Vessel (NSMV) built for the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD).
Point of View
Reflecting a broader commitment to enhance military cooperation. Such initiatives are essential for maintaining regional security and should be viewed positively in the context of international relations.
NationPress
2 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Hanwha's investment in the US Navy?
Hanwha's investment is pivotal for enhancing shipbuilding capabilities and strengthening defense ties between the US and South Korea.
What are the planned new vessels called?
The new vessels being developed in collaboration are referred to as the 'Trump-class' frigates.
How much is Hanwha investing in the Philadelphia shipyard?
Hanwha is set to invest US$5 billion in the Philadelphia shipyard.
What is the goal of the Make American Shipbuilding Great Again initiative?
The initiative aims to boost US shipbuilding capacity and enhance cooperation with South Korean firms.
When was this partnership announcement made?
The announcement was made during a press conference on December 23.
