MOU Signed at MADEX on May 28
Synergy Expected Between K-Steel and K-Defense
POSCO and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries are launching a joint research initiative to apply high-manganese steel to next-generation naval defense platforms.
On May 28, the two companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for "the development and real-ship application of advanced future warship materials" at the International Maritime Defense Industry Exhibition (MADEX) 2025, held at BEXCO in Busan. This agreement aims to expand the application of high-manganese steel, which POSCO developed for the first time in the world, from its current use in LNG fuel tanks to the hulls of warships.
High-manganese steel is a non-magnetic steel that does not require a separate demagnetization process and can enhance the survivability of warships against naval mines and underwater explosives. It also has approximately 10% higher strength compared to standard shipbuilding steel, making it more resistant to external impacts and advantageous for reducing hull weight. This collaboration is expected to evaluate the feasibility of applying high-manganese steel to warships and to serve as a starting point for full-scale research and development for real-ship application.
A POSCO representative stated, "We have continuously developed new materials such as non-magnetic high-manganese steel based on our world-class steelmaking technology," adding, "We will broaden the application of high-manganese steel in the defense sector to enhance both technological competitiveness and national defense capabilities." An HD Hyundai Heavy Industries official also remarked, "We plan to apply high-manganese steel to mine-laying ships, mine countermeasure vessels, and unmanned surface vessels to dramatically improve warship survivability," and emphasized, "We will continue research and development to expand the use of new materials."
This agreement is considered significant as it formalizes the cooperation between two leading representatives of K-Defense and K-Steel in the presence of the Navy, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, and global buyers. During this MADEX period, POSCO also plans to present two papers at the "Warship Technology and Weapon Systems Seminar": "Current Status of New Material Development for Improving Warship Survivability" and "Non-Magnetic High-Manganese Steel as a Hull Material for Special-Purpose Ships."
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