New Delhi, July 3, 2025: In a significant step toward fostering strategic maritime cooperation, South Korea’s HD Hyundai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India’s largest shipbuilder, Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL). This strategic partnership aims to promote collaboration in advanced shipbuilding, defence manufacturing, and maritime innovation.
The agreement was signed in the presence of senior officials from both nations and marks a pivotal moment in the expanding Indo-Korean industrial relationship.
The MoU will focus on several key areas:
- Technology transfer in commercial and defence shipbuilding
- Joint development of eco-friendly and next-generation vessels
- Collaboration in global maritime projects
- Promotion of localised manufacturing under the Make in India initiative
This development aligns with India’s broader push to enhance its blue economy and maritime capabilities. Cochin Shipyard, which has emerged as a powerhouse in defence shipbuilding and maintenance, will benefit from HD Hyundai’s global expertise and innovation in marine engineering.
“This partnership is not just about ships. It’s about building capabilities, sharing knowledge, and steering the future of maritime technology together,” said a Cochin Shipyard spokesperson.
Strategic Significance
The MoU is also expected to pave the way for joint participation in global tenders, co-development of dual-use technologies, and potentially new facilities or expansion in India and South Korea.
HD Hyundai, formerly known as Hyundai Heavy Industries, is a global leader in shipbuilding and maritime technology. The company has a longstanding reputation for innovation in LNG carriers, naval ships, and eco-friendly marine solutions.
The Indo-Korean partnership comes at a time when both countries are looking to expand strategic cooperation in key sectors such as defence, blue economy, renewable energy, and industrial manufacturing.
As global shipping lanes evolve and defence requirements grow, this MoU could shape the future of maritime collaboration between two of Asia’s leading industrial powers.
