South Korean Shipyard Bags Order for Ammonia Carriers

Major South Korean shipyard HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co. announced that it secured a 489.6 billion won (US$372 million) order to build three very large ammonia carriers for an Oceanian shipper. The vessels are expected to be completed and delivered to the undisclosed shipping company by December 2027.

According to Korea Bizwire, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., a unit of HD Korea Shipbuilding, will be responsible for constructing the carriers at its shipyard located in the southeastern port of Ulsan.

Diverse Ship Orders

In the current year, HD Korea Shipbuilding has successfully obtained orders for 72 vessels valued at $8.75 billion, which accounts for 64.8 percent of its annual target of $13.5 billion. These orders encompass a variety of ship types, including liquefied natural gas carriers, petrochemical carriers, and crude carriers.

The specific ship types in the recent orders include six liquefied natural gas carriers, 26 petrochemical carriers, 24 liquefied petroleum gas and ammonia carriers, as well as six very large and ultra-large crude carriers.

Technological Advancements and Innovation

HD Korea Shipbuilding is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions into its shipbuilding processes. The company is focused on the adoption of smart ship technologies, which include advanced navigation systems, automated machinery, and digital platforms for real-time monitoring and management.

The Investor noted that these technological advancements not only enhance the operational efficiency of the vessels but also significantly improve safety and reliability. Furthermore, the commitment to innovation is demonstrated through investments in research and development (R&D) activities aimed at exploring new materials and construction methodologies that can lead to lighter, stronger, and more sustainable ships. This approach not only sets HD Korea Shipbuilding apart in the competitive shipbuilding industry but also ensures it remains aligned with the evolving needs of the global shipping sector

HD Korea Shipbuilding's Position

As a sub-holding company of the conglomerate HD Hyundai, HD Korea Shipbuilding oversees three domestic units, namely HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co., and Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries Co. These units collectively contribute to the shipbuilding, oil refining, and machinery sectors.

The company's strategic positioning in the high-demand segments of shipbuilding, including energy-efficient and eco-friendly vessels, underscores its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. This focus not only aligns with global regulatory pressures to reduce maritime emissions but also positions HD Korea Shipbuilding as a forward-thinking leader in the industry.

By prioritizing the development of ships that comply with the latest emission standards, the company is effectively responding to the increasing market demand for green shipping solutions.

Photo: HD Korea Shipbuilding