Ulsan, South Korea — 19 November 2025 — HD Hyundai has achieved a landmark moment in global shipbuilding history with the delivery of its 5,000th vessel, a feat the company describes as unprecedented in the industry. The milestone was celebrated during a ceremony at its Ulsan shipyard, marking more than fifty years of continuous ship exports.
The Milestone Ship: BRP Diego Silang
The 5,000th vessel is the BRP Diego Silang, a 3,200-ton guided-missile corvette built for the Philippine Navy under its ongoing naval modernization programme.
Key ship specifications include:
- Length: 118.4 metres
- Beam: 14.9 metres
- Cruising speed: 15 knots
- Range: 4,500 nautical miles
The vessel is equipped with a vertical launching system, close-in weapon systems, hull-mounted sonar, and modern surveillance radar, making it one of the most advanced warships in the Philippine fleet. Named after Filipino revolutionary hero Diego Silang, the vessel was launched in March 2025 and completed later in the year.
Five Decades, 5,000 Ships
Hyundai’s historic run began in 1974 with the delivery of the VLCC Atlantic Baron, a 260,000-dwt oil tanker. Since then, Hyundai has grown into a global shipbuilding powerhouse, with contributions from its three major subsidiaries:
- Hyundai Heavy Industries: approximately 2,631 vessels
- Hyundai Mipo Dockyard: approximately 1,570 vessels
- Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries: approximately 799 vessels
Together, these shipyards have delivered vessels to more than 700 shipowners across 68 countries, covering commercial ships, naval vessels, offshore units, and specialised ships.
Industry Impact and National Significance
During the ceremony, HD Hyundai Chairman Chung Ki-sun described the achievement as a symbol of “Korea’s pride in global shipbuilding” and a testament to the company’s spirit of innovation. He emphasized that Hyundai is now looking ahead “to the next 5,000 ships,” signalling long-term ambitions backed by strong orderbooks and expanding defence contracts.
The milestone also underscores South Korea’s leadership in global shipbuilding, especially at a time when demand for technologically advanced vessels — including LNG carriers, naval patrol vessels, and eco-friendly ships — continues to rise.
Strategic Ties with the Philippines
The BRP Diego Silang forms part of a broader naval contract between Hyundai and the Philippine government. Manila has ordered a total of 10 ships from Hyundai, including two corvettes and six offshore patrol vessels. The project reinforces strategic ties between South Korea and the Philippines while supporting Manila’s efforts to modernise its maritime defence capabilities.
Looking Ahead
With 5,000 vessels delivered over five decades, HD Hyundai has cemented its status as one of the world’s most prolific and influential shipbuilders. The company now aims to expand into next-generation shipbuilding, focusing on high-value defence vessels, green shipping technologies, and advanced commercial ship designs.
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