- SHI formed a triangular alliance with U.S.-based NASSCO and Korea`s DESC; launched LNG bunkering vessel collaboration with Conrad.

- A broad cooperation framework ranging from next-generation logistics ships to LNG bunkering vessels will be established.

Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) has decided to expand its shipbuilding cooperation with the United States to include joint construction of LNG bunkering vessels, in addition to collaboration on Next Generation Logistics Ships (NGLS).

SHI announced on the 5th that it signed a three-party business cooperation agreement with General Dynamics NASSCO, a U.S. shipbuilder, and DSEC, a Korean marine engineering company, during the International WorkBoat Show held in New Orleans from December 3 to 5 (local time).

Under the agreement, SHI, NASSCO, and DSEC plan to expand cooperation across ship design, equipment and component supply, and workforce development, while also reviewing a joint bid for the U.S. Navy’s Next Generation Logistics Ship (NGLS) program.

The U.S. Navy`s NGLS refers to vessels designed to ensure high mobility and operational efficiency in logistics missions, including the supply of fuel, ammunition, and provisions.

Headquartered in San Diego, California, NASSCO is a shipbuilding subsidiary of General Dynamics and operates five shipyards across four U.S. states. The company is a major U.S. shipbuilder with capabilities spanning design, procurement, construction, and MRO for logistics support vessels and commercial ships, including container carriers.

DSEC, a leading Korean marine engineering firm, entered into a strategic partnership with SHI in November and is pursuing global business expansion, including in the United States. DSEC and NASSCO have maintained a strong cooperative relationship for over 20 years in areas such as ship design and equipment package supply, creating strong synergy among the three companies.

Separately, SHI also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Conrad Shipyard to pursue joint construction of LNG bunkering vessels.

Conrad operates five shipyards in Louisiana and Texas and is engaged in newbuilding, repair, and conversion of vessels such as barges, tugboats, and government service vessels.

Through the joint construction of LNG bunkering vessels, SHI and Conrad plan to enter the U.S. LNG transportation and bunkering market together, which is expected to grow amid increased LNG price competitiveness, rising demand for eco-friendly fuels, and expanded investment in bunkering terminals and related infrastructure.

With these initiatives, SHI is building a comprehensive cooperation framework in the United States—extending from MRO services for U.S. Navy auxiliary ships with the Vigor Marine Group, to joint construction of next-generation auxiliary ships, and further to joint construction of LNG bunkering vessels in the commercial sector.

“Samsung Heavy Industries` technological capabilities, built over more than 50 years, will generate strong synergies through MASGA cooperation,” stated a representative from Samsung Heavy Industries. “We will further accelerate technology exchange and workforce development, making a meaningful contribution to strengthening the competitiveness of the U.S. shipbuilding industry.”