HD Hyundai has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Fraser Industries to modernize U.S. shipyards.
The agreement aims to support the revitalization of the U.S. shipbuilding industry.
The partnership covers the entire shipyard lifecycle. It includes shipyard assessments, yard design, automation, robotics, AI solutions, data management and workforce training.
HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) will provide its expertise in shipyard design, construction and operations. The company will also supply digital engineering and manufacturing solutions.
Later this year, the partners plan to launch a shipyard modernization consulting programme. They will use Fraser Shipyards on Lake Superior as a demonstration project.
Fraser Shipyards is a member of the Great Lakes Shipyard Alliance. The alliance also includes Fincantieri Marine Group and Donjon Marine. It supports projects such as the U.S. Coast Guard’s new light icebreaker programme.
The agreement is the first major project since HD KSOE expanded its business to include digital engineering and smart shipyard solutions.
Kim Hyung-kwan, President and CEO of HD KSOE, said the company will help Fraser Shipyards improve its capabilities and support the wider modernization of the U.S. shipbuilding industry.
