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HD Hyundai Launches Joint Keel-Laying Ceremony for Four Naval Vessels in Peru
HD Hyundai Launches Joint Keel-Laying Ceremony for Four Naval Vessels in Peru
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) has officially marked the start of its major naval project in Peru, signaling the beginning of Korea’s defense industry expansion into Latin America.
On January 10, 2025 (local time), HD HHI held a joint keel-laying and steel-cutting ceremony at SIMA Shipyard, Peru’s state-owned naval shipbuilder, for four vessels to be delivered to the Peruvian Navy. The project covers three ship types—a frigate, an offshore patrol vessel, and a landing ship—totaling four units.
The event was attended by Peruvian President Dina Boluarte, Minister of Defense Walter Astudillo, Navy Commander Luis José Polar Figari, Chief of Naval Staff César Ernesto Colunge Pinto, and HD HHI’s Head of Special & Naval Ship Business Unit, Joo Won-ho.
The ships will be constructed locally at SIMA facilities, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2026. HD HHI will provide advanced design expertise and production know-how, while also partnering with local Peruvian equipment suppliers to strengthen productivity and competitiveness in Peru’s shipbuilding sector.
This “Peru Naval Project” stems from a ₩640.6 billion (approx. USD 480 million) contract signed in April 2024. As a result of coordinated efforts between the Korean government and industry under the “Team Korea” framework, the deal is regarded as a model case for future overseas defense exports.
President Dina Boluarte expressed her confidence at the ceremony, stating:
“With this keel-laying, I believe the project to build ships that will safeguard Peru’s maritime sovereignty will progress smoothly.”
HD HHI’s Joo Won-ho added:
“Today marks the opening chapter of Korea’s naval shipbuilding presence in Latin America. Based on technology and trust, we are committed to successfully executing this project and further strengthening defense cooperation between Korea and Peru.”
As part of broader defense collaboration, HD HHI is also supporting a Naval Architecture Training Program in partnership with the University of Ulsan. Beginning January 13, 12 engineers from SIMA Shipyard will undergo a two-week training course in Korea to enhance technical expertise.
Looking ahead, HD HHI plans to expand its “Pan-Pacific Belt Vision”, establishing regional hubs in Peru, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, and the United States. The strategy includes local partnerships, joint shipbuilding, and standardized technology transfer packages, reinforcing the company’s leadership in global naval shipbuilding.
