SEOUL, March 29 (AJU PRESS) - South Korea's HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) has been chosen as the preferred bidder to assist in constructing four naval warships for the Peruvian Navy, worth $462.9 million. The project is the largest defense export by a South Korean company to South America.
Peru's state-run SIMA Peru S.A. said on Thursday HHI was selected as the preferred negotiator for its joint project to build a 3400-ton frigate, a 2200-ton offshore patrol vessel, and two 1400-ton landing ships. These warships are scheduled to be delivered to Peru's naval forces by 2030. The South Korean shipbuilder will handle the design, supply of materials, and technical support for the warships, while SIMA will be in charge of the construction.
The Peruvian company has selected HHI among candidates from different countries, including Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. Its decision considered several factors, including technology transfer, industrial capacity, and experience in the defense industry.
The main contract is scheduled to be signed in April, according to HHI, and there is a high possibility of securing follow-up projects. It said the Central and South American region has a high demand for replacing aging warships with modern ones.
"With our abundant export experience and advanced technological capabilities, we will expand our presence in the South American market through K-warships," said Joo Won-ho, vice president of HHI.
The 3400-ton frigate will be equipped with active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars capable of detecting a target object and collecting various information such as distance and speed to the target area. The 2200-ton-class offshore patrol vessel will incorporate the capability for operating medium-sized helicopters, and the two 1400-ton-class landing ships will be able to accommodate seven large armored vehicles.
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