Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), the world’s largest shipbuilder, announced today it won an order to build a 23,000 ton class logistics support vessel for New Zealand Defence Force’s Maritime Sustainment Capability (MSC) project. HHI was selected as a preferred bidder in December 2015. HHI will deliver the logistics support vessel to New Zealand by the end of 2019, the company said in its press release.
Under the MSC project, the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) plans to replace its replenishment tanker HMNZS Endeavour to maintain replenishment capability for the New Zealand Defence Force. HMNZS Endeavor, which has served RNZN for the past 30 years and is still in good condition, was also delivered by HHI in 1987.
The MSC tanker is able to refuel two ships at a time while underway, carry and refuel helicopters, produce and store water, and store and transport bulk goods. The tanker also has ice-strengthening and winterisation features to support Antarctic base during summer season. The vessel has adopted Environship Leadge Bow* for improved fuel efficiency, maneuverability and stability. The Electric Replenishment/Fuelling-at-sea systems allow ease of control and quieter operation while CODLAD* (combined diesel-electric and diesel) propulsion system reduces emissions and ensures longer engine life. With the main crane located at the center of the vessel weighting 25 tons with a wider-than-average operating range of 23 m, the tanker can load and offload container boxes and bulk goods more effectively.
ROK Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) and ROK Navy have been supportive of HHI in its efforts to win the order. DAPA and ROK Navy joined due diligence sessions to promote HHI’s capabilities showing existing HHI built logistic support vessel, and promised support in building the MSC Tanker.
HHI has built all the logistics support vessels for ROK Navy and has exported two logistics support vessels. Moreover, the company is currently building the next generation AOE-II. Since constructing and delivering the first Korean-built frigate ROKS Ulsan in 1980, HHI has solidified its position as a leading naval shipbuilder by delivering a variety of naval ships including Aegis destroyers, KDX-II destroyers, multipurpose frigates, submarines, and patrol/salvage ships.