Korean shipbuilders and defense firms are positioning themselves to join the U.S. Navy’s Golden Fleet initiative as Washington seeks rapid fleet expansion. Hanwha, HD Hyundai and Samsung Heavy are exploring partnerships, bids and technology cooperation under the Make American Shipbuilding Great Again push.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s pledge to revive the U.S. shipbuilding industry has raised hopes among Korean shipbuilders for increased cooperation but also prompted calls for formal government agreements to ensure stable and profitable partnerships. Korean firms remain cautious about relying on uncertain U.S. Navy contracts without long-term guarantees.
