Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) of South Korea has unveiled its submarine designs as part of its bid for the Hellenic Navy’s multibillion-euro modernization program. HHI highlighted its extensive experience in sub-sea vessel construction, including building six of South Korea’s nine Sohn Won-yil-class (KSS-II) submarines under the Korean Attack Submarine Program, according to Defence Industry Europe.
The company is also contracted to modernize the first three vessels of that class, built between 2007 and 2009, under a deal valued at roughly $360 million. Hyundai further emphasized its role in the KSS-III program, having delivered the final Batch I submarine, ROKS Shin Chae-ho. Sources said the company presented additional naval designs, indicating interest in cooperation beyond submarines.
HHI is one of several contenders competing for the Hellenic Ministry of Defence contract. Earlier in October, Hanwha Ocean showcased the Dosan Ahn Chang-ho-class (KSS-III) submarine, while Sweden’s Saab Kockums offered an A26-based (Blekinge-class) design. German and French firms are also participating, proposing the Type 209NG and Scorpène Evolved models, respectively. The Hellenic Navy is expected to review all submissions in the coming months, marking a major step in Greece’s most significant naval modernization effort in decades.
