The 40,000-ton dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Wally Schirra will get maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services from Hanwha Ocean, which has announced the winning of its proposal. With this deal, a Korean shipyard will offer the US Navy MRO services for the first time.
At the Geoje shipyard of Hanwha Ocean, the ship is undergoing inspection and maintenance. Additional onshore maintenance work is being carried out using the shipyard’s floating facilities. The three-month initiative is anticipated to showcase Hanwha Ocean’s cutting-edge technology and maintenance infrastructure to the U.S. Navy, thereby expanding the company’s global defence activities.
A spokeswoman stated, “This U.S. Navy maintenance project represents a stepping stone to a significant leap forward, with the global naval vessels MRO market size projected to exceed $60 billion annually.” “We have meticulously prepared and refined our MRO services to build trust with the U.S. Navy. We will also work closely with local small and medium-sized enterprises to support the maintenance industry in South Korea.”
Hanwha Ocean obtained its Master Ship Repair Agreement (MSRA) certification in July 2024, which is required by the MRO contract. The U.S. Navy’s accreditation attests to Hanwha Ocean’s superior shipbuilding and maintenance/repair skills. This MRO project will act as a pilot program in Asia in addition to the company’s recent acquisition of Philly Shipyard, a prominent shipbuilding company in Philadelphia. This will expedite Hanwha Ocean’s entry into the U.S. navy shipbuilding industry.
