South Korea’s HJ Shipbuilding nails first US Navy repair
Mid-sized South Korean yard completes overhaul of USNS Amelia Earhart after six-month delay and expanded scope
South Korea’s HJ Shipbuilding & Construction has marked a milestone by completing its first maintenance and repair project for the U.S. Navy, finishing work on the logistics vessel USNS Amelia Earhart after an extended timeline and expanded scope.
The 40,000-tonne ship left the company’s Yeongdo shipyard in Busan on October 15, following repairs that began in January 2026. The project, initially set to conclude in April, was delayed after inspections uncovered additional defects and maintenance needs beyond the original contract. The U.S. Navy approved the proposed corrective measures, pushing the completion date to mid-October.
Scope of work and vessel details: HJ Shipbuilding
The USNS Amelia Earhart, a 210-meter logistics support vessel, arrived at the Busan shipyard under a contract signed in December 2025 with the U.S. Navy’s Naval Supply Systems Command and Military Sealift Command. The original work included hull inspections, system checks, equipment maintenance, and component replacements.
During the process, HJ Shipbuilding identified further issues requiring attention. The company’s proposed solutions were accepted, extending the project by six months and increasing its contract value. While the revised amount remains undisclosed, the company confirmed the expansion boosted its revenue and profit. The vessel, designed to supply U.S. Navy carriers and combat ships, can transport up to 6,000 tonnes of ammunition, food, and other cargo, along with 2,400 tonnes of fuel.
Significance for future contracts
This project establishes HJ Shipbuilding as the first mid-sized South Korean shipbuilder to secure and complete a U.S. Navy maintenance contract. The company reported that the Navy expressed satisfaction with the quality of the repairs and its performance.
The experience positions HJ Shipbuilding to pursue additional U.S. Navy repair work, though no follow-up contracts have been announced. The company’s ability to secure future opportunities will depend on winning new bids in the naval repair market.
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