Hanwha Group’s three defense subsidiaries—Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Aerospace, and Hanwha Systems—are set to showcase their future maritime integrated solutions at the 2025 International Marine Defense Industry Exhibition (MADEX 2025) starting May 28 at BEXCO in Busan. The companies will highlight their unique capabilities across a spectrum of technologies, from ships and unmanned systems to energy systems, demonstrating Hanwha’s comprehensive maritime power integration.
The core of Hanwha’s future marine integrated solutions combines Hanwha Ocean’s unmatched shipbuilding expertise—particularly in surface ships and submarines—with Hanwha Systems’ dominance in combat management systems (CMS) and unmanned systems. Additionally, Hanwha Aerospace contributes through advanced energy storage solutions such as lithium-ion energy storage devices (ESS), designed to maximize submarine endurance. This synergy aims to deliver cutting-edge, integrated maritime capabilities.
For the first time, Hanwha will operate a dedicated integrated pavilion during MADEX 2025, combining physical displays with digital content to effectively communicate their vision for future maritime defense.
Hanwha Ocean plans to showcase its total maritime prowess centered around its Korea-class KSS-III submarine (Batch-II) and the next-generation KDDX frigate, highlighting design, manufacturing, and maintenance (MRO) capabilities aimed at both domestic and international markets. Also on display will be unmanned and manned composite systems and smart manufacturing technologies, reaffirming Hanwha Ocean’s position as a leader in shipbuilding.
At the exhibition, Hanwha Ocean will unveil a total of eight vessels equipped with the latest technology, including two unmanned ships, three surface ships, and three submarines. Notably, the lineup features two unmanned vessels: a combat unmanned submarine (UUV) and an unmanned surface vessel (USV) for power control, with the latter acting as a strategic asset supporting the Navy’s "Smart Navy" concept—integrating a variety of unmanned assets for autonomous maritime operations.
In the surface vessel category, the Korea-class KDDX (Korea Deep Defense) advanced frigate, the updated Ulsan-class Batch-IV destroyer, and a Thai-exported frigate will be exhibited. The KDDX is equipped with electric propulsion, integrated mast, advanced hull design, networked systems, a smart bridge, and smart ship technologies that reduce crew requirements.
Submarine displays will include a range of models from 2,000 tons to 3,600 tons, targeting both domestic and international markets. The 3,600-ton submarine, a particular highlight, is the world’s first to feature both air-independent propulsion (AIP) and lithium-ion batteries simultaneously, offering unmatched underwater endurance among diesel submarines.
Hanwha Systems will also unveil its first "combat unmanned surface vessel," designed to block enemy encroachment near forward combat zones. The company’s in-house-developed CMS, which commands all sensors and weapons onboard ships and submarines, has maintained a 99% supply rate to the South Korean Navy’s surface and underwater vessels—a market leadership position.
Moreover, Hanwha will showcase cutting-edge technologies aimed at future naval warfare, including cockpit-type integrated battle management systems (IBS), next-generation consoles for surface ships, and export-variant combat systems for submarines like the Son Woniil (214) class, demonstrating a vision of a "Smart Battleship." The exhibit will also feature domestically-developed ultra-low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite communication technology to achieve fully “hyper-connected” marine battlefield scenarios.
On opening day, May 28, Hanwha will host a cocktail reception attended by key military officials including Admiral Yang Yong-mo, along with foreign dignitaries, industry representatives, and more than 100 guests. This event aims to highlight Hanwha’s integrated maritime defense capabilities, emphasizing their synergy across Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Systems, and Hanwha Aerospace in shaping future naval warfare.
A Hanwha spokesperson stated, “At MADEX 2025, we will showcase the technological excellence and future vision of Hanwha defense companies. Our world-class shipbuilding and command systems will further expand strategic partnerships domestically and internationally, reinforcing Hanwha’s position as a leader in naval defense.”
