HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has embarked on a significant collaboration with the Portuguese Navy, focusing on the joint development of advanced small submarines. This agreement was formalized during the Marine Defense Exhibition 2025 (MADEX) held in Singapore, marking a pivotal move in what could evolve into a strategic partnership that would encompass ship maintenance, repair, and overhaul services.
The Portuguese Navy is currently seeking to enhance its fleet, which includes two existing 2,000-ton Tridente-class submarines that were commissioned in 2010. Plans for the addition of two more vessels are underway, with potential designs that might be either identical to the Tridente or smaller in scale. Insights from previous Chief of the Portuguese Naval Staff, Admiral Gouveia e Melo, and current Chief Admiral Jorge Nobre de Sousa, suggest that this expansion is a crucial step for the navy’s operational capabilities.
At MADEX, HD Hyundai revealed an array of its submarine offerings, showcasing three export models weighing 2,300 tons, 1,500 tons, and 800 tons, aimed at meeting diverse operational needs. In addition to its submarine initiatives, HD Hyundai also entered into a memorandum of understanding with POSCO to innovate new materials tailored for next-generation ship hulls.
Moreover, the shipbuilder further strengthened its collaborative footprint by signing agreements with Korea Aerospace Industries and LIG Nex1 to develop a multipurpose unmanned power ship. Additional partnerships with industry leaders such as Leonardo and Thales were also announced, positioning HD Hyundai at the forefront of advanced maritime solutions and technology development. This multifaceted strategy not only enhances HD Hyundai’s portfolio but also supports the evolving demands of naval defense operations globally.
