Strategic Shipbuilding Collaboration between HD Hyundai and ECO to Build Medium-Sized Containerships by 2028
HD Hyundai, a leading shipbuilder, has announced a strategic partnership with U.S.-based Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO) for the construction of medium-sized containerships in the United States by 2028. The collaboration aims to leverage design, procurement, equipment, and strategic technology investment to enhance the shipbuilding industry in the U.S.
Signing Ceremony at ECO Headquarters
The signing ceremony took place on Friday, June 20, at ECO’s headquarters in New Orleans, Louisiana. Hannae Choi, Head of Planning at HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, and Gary Chouest, Chairman of ECO, were present at the event. During the ceremony, the two companies agreed to cooperate on the construction of LNG dual-fuel containerships.
About ECO
ECO is a renowned shipbuilding group in the U.S. with five commercial shipyards across the country. The company specializes in Offshore Support Vessels (OSVs) and has a fleet of 300 vessels. ECO recently formed the United Shipbuilding Alliance (USA) with Bollinger Shipyard to strengthen the nation’s shipbuilding capabilities.
Strategic Partnership for U.S. Shipbuilding
According to Clarkson Research, U.S. shipyards received limited orders for containerships in recent years. In response, ECO sought collaboration with HD Hyundai to enhance its shipbuilding capabilities. Under the agreement, the two companies plan to build mid-sized containerships at ECO’s shipyards by 2028. HD Hyundai will provide design support, equipment procurement services, construction technology assistance, and key technical investments to support the initiative.
Strengthening U.S.-Korea Cooperation
HD Hyundai is committed to strengthening U.S.-Korea cooperation in the shipbuilding and maritime sectors. The company has signed agreements with Huntington Ingalls Industries and Fairbanks Morse Defense, key players in the defense shipbuilding industry. Additionally, HD Hyundai has collaborated with the University of Michigan and Seoul National University to foster talent in the shipbuilding sector.
The strategic partnership between HD Hyundai and ECO signifies a significant step towards revitalizing the U.S. shipbuilding industry and enhancing national security. With a focus on medium-sized containerships, the collaboration is poised to bring innovation and growth to the maritime sector in the years to come.