Wedoany.com Report-Jun 24, HD Hyundai has formed a strategic partnership with U.S.-based Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO) to construct mid-sized LNG dual-fuel containerships in the United States by 2028. As South Korea’s largest shipbuilder, HD Hyundai will contribute vessel design, procurement services, technical construction support, and prefabricated structural blocks to the initiative. The collaboration is aimed at bolstering U.S. shipbuilding capabilities and expanding eco-friendly vessel construction.

ECO, known for producing offshore support vessels, operates five shipyards across the United States. Through this partnership, the two companies plan to explore further joint development opportunities, including the construction of various vessel types and port cranes.

An HD Hyundai spokesperson stated: “Through this collaboration with ECO, we will actively support the revival of America’s shipbuilding industry and its broader national security goals.” The company also plans to invest in technology assets to enhance production and support the long-term growth of this collaboration.

This partnership is part of HD Hyundai’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the U.S. shipbuilding market. In April 2025, HD Hyundai signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Huntington Ingalls Industries, the largest defense shipbuilder in the United States, to jointly pursue advancements in productivity and high-tech shipbuilding methods.

In addition, HD Hyundai has partnered with Fairbanks Morse Defense to develop a resilient supply chain and signed an educational MOU with the University of Michigan and Seoul National University. The goal of this educational initiative is to nurture shipbuilding talent and promote collaboration in academic research and industry training.

These efforts align with recent developments in the U.S. maritime industry. The United States has taken steps to rejuvenate its domestic shipbuilding sector, which currently represents less than 1% of global shipbuilding output. This includes increased cooperation with international partners and investments in shipyard modernization and workforce development.

Another South Korean shipbuilding company, Hanwha Ocean, has also committed to strengthening the U.S. shipbuilding sector by acquiring and revitalizing Philly Shipyard, further indicating a growing trend of Korean-American industrial cooperation in maritime sectors.

The HD Hyundai-ECO partnership aims not only to meet growing demand for low-emission vessels but also to contribute to the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the U.S. shipbuilding industry. The planned LNG dual-fuel containerships reflect the shift toward cleaner marine propulsion technologies and are expected to support future regulatory compliance and environmental targets.

The collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing technological exchange, supply chain integration, and industrial cooperation between South Korea and the United States, particularly in the maritime and energy transport sectors.