Hanwha Ocean executives will visit Chile to deepen bilateral naval cooperation and pitch local shipyards on upcoming submarine and frigate replacement programs, according to statements provided to Infodefensa.com. Led by President Insub Jung, the delegation’s arrival coincides with a broader state visit by Republic of Korea President Lee Jae-myung to boost trade and investment across South America.
Hanwha Ocean Targets Chilean Submarine and Frigate Programs
The upcoming visit builds on defense integration agreements signed between Chile and Korea. Both nations elevated their diplomatic ties to a strategic partnership in 2022, followed by the approval of a Defense Cooperation Agreement in September 2023, according to official reports.
Hanwha Ocean confirmed to Infodefensa.com that the firm is “fully committed to participating in the future submarine and frigate programs of Chile as a long-term strategic partner.” Company representatives emphasized that their proposal spans joint design, technology transfer, shipyard modernization, workforce development, and supply chain cooperation.
Did you know? Hanwha Ocean operates as a subsidiary of Hanwha Group.
Supporting Chile’s National Continuous Shipbuilding Plan
Hanwha Ocean aims to integrate its technology directly into Chile’s Plan Nacional Continuo de Construcción Naval. This domestic initiative mandates that surface combatants required by the Armada de Chile, including new frigates, are produced locally to strengthen national industrial capacity.
To support these acquisition programs, the company showcased specific platforms at the Korea Defence Day 2025 and FIDAE 2026 exhibitions. According to company disclosures, Hanwha presented the Ocean 4500 design for the Chilean frigate program and the Ocean 2000 alternative for the submarine modernization initiative intended to replace the existing 209/1400L class units.
Engineering Education and Local Talent Development
As an initial step toward establishing a long-term industrial footprint, Hanwha Ocean signed a Memorandum of Understanding in April 2026 with the Universidad Austral de Chile. The agreement establishes a cooperative framework to train local engineering talent and facilitate technical exchanges.
The training curriculum incorporates joint educational frameworks and dual-training schemes designed to transfer engineering capabilities progressively. Company representatives stated that this framework extends beyond standard technology transfer by embedding research, design, and production capabilities directly within Chile.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Hanwha Ocean executives visit Chile?
A delegation led by Hanwha Ocean President Insub Jung will visit Chile during the final week of July 2026.
What military programs is Hanwha Ocean targeting in Chile?
According to Infodefensa.com, the company is targeting upcoming Chilean Navy programs to replace existing submarines and construct new frigates.
What specific naval platforms has Hanwha proposed to Chile?
Hanwha Ocean has presented the Ocean 4500 design for the frigate program and the Ocean 2000 alternative for the submarine replacement program.
How is Hanwha supporting local Chilean education?
The firm signed an MOU with the Universidad Austral de Chile in April 2026 to support local engineering talent development, technical exchanges, and dual-training programs.
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