HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is set to win the next order for its frigate business in Saudi Arabia. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries announced on the 8th (local time) that it will participate in the “2026 International Defense Exhibition” (WDS) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for five days.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries will form a joint exhibition hall with LIG NexOne, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), and EOST to introduce advanced shipbuilding technologies and maritime defense capabilities.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries will also introduce a total of eight types of ships, including the 6,000-ton frigate HDF-6000, aimed at the Saudi Navy’s modernization program.

The company has developed the HDF-6000 as an Aegis-class frigate by scaling up and improving equipment and performance to meet Saudi needs. In addition, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries plans to highlight package solutions for Saudi naval modernization projects for Saudi Defense Ministry and naval officials at the exhibition. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries plans to actively introduce local construction, maintenance, and operation (MRO) performance through the Cima Shipyard in Peru, as well as design, construction, and business management capabilities. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is also planning to propose local construction plans. It is considering expanding the local construction ratio for HDF-6000, focusing on Saudi IMI Shipyard, which was established by joint investment by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering and Aramco, when ordering frigate in the future.

During the WDS period, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries will sign a “joint business agreement (MOU) to build a supply chain in Saudi Arabia” with 12 Korean companies, including Saudi Investment Department and LIG Nex1 and STX Engine. We will do our best to win the next Saudi frigate business with a local construction and industrial cooperation strategy that utilizes IMI, the largest shipyard in the Middle East and North Africa, said Joo Won-ho, president of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.
Source: Maeil Business Newpaper(MK)