HD Hyundai wins US Navy research contracts first time

Apr 27, 2026, 08:55 am

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HD Hyundai signs a contract for research projects with the Office of Naval Research at its headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, on April 23. /HD Hyundai

HD Hyundai has secured two key research and development (R&D) projects from the Office of Naval Research (ONR), marking the first time a Korean company has won such contracts.

The company announced on April 27 that it signed agreements with ONR on April 23 at its headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. The ONR, under the U.S. Department of the Navy, oversees scientific and technological R&D for both the Navy and Marine Corps.

Focus on AI-Based Ship Performance and Production

Under the contracts, HD Hyundai will undertake projects to enhance naval vessel performance using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

Leveraging its advanced digital shipbuilding capabilities, the project will be jointly carried out by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Seoul National University’s Department of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, led by Professor Kim Yong-hwan.

In addition, HD Hyundai will develop technologies aimed at improving shipbuilding productivity based on advanced manufacturing techniques. This research will be conducted by the Future Technology Research Institute of HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering.

Strengthening Role as U.S. Navy Partner

With these contracts, HD Hyundai is expected to expand its role as a key partner of the U.S. Navy, collaborating across the full spectrum of naval development—from design to construction.

The achievement is particularly significant as it reflects recognition of the company’s advanced capabilities in naval technologies by the U.S. Navy.

Joo Won-ho, president of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Naval & Special Ship Business Unit, said, “This ONR project will serve as a foundation to further expand cooperation with the United States in the naval sector. We will do our utmost to broaden the reach of Korea’s maritime defense industry with pride as a national representative.”

#HD Hyundai #Office of Naval Research #US Navy #shipbuilding #AI technology