South Korean Shipyard Completes Major US Navy Vessel Repair A significant milestone has been reached as a U.S. Navy dry cargo ship departs a South Korean shipyard following an extensive seven-month overhaul. This marks the first major repair of an American naval vessel by a South Korean firm, demonstrating the growing defense relationship between the two nations. The USNS Wally Schirra, a Lewis and Clark-class ship, received maintenance at Hanwha Ocean ’s shipyard on Geoje Island, approximately 200 miles southeast of Seoul. The vessel's repair is considered a vital step in enhancing the operational readiness of the Navy's logistical fleet while maintaining cost-effectiveness and minimizing downtime. Rear Adm. Neil Koprowski, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Korea, highlighted the importance of South Korea's capability to conduct such maintenance, which enhances strategic partnerships within the Indo-Pacific theater. The repair, which included removing hull corrosion and replacing the rudder, was noted for its efficiency as Hanwha Ocean employed reverse engineering techniques to complete the tasks. This development comes amid challenges faced by U.S. shipyards, which are dealing with a backlog of maintenance work. Hanwha is also working on another U.S. Navy asset, the USNS Yukon, highlighting the shipyard's growing role in supporting U.S. naval operations. Hanwha, one of South Korea's leading shipbuilders, has recently expanded its presence in the U.S. industry, further strengthening trans-Pacific defense ties. As part of its expansion, Hanwha acquired the Norwegian-owned Philly Shipyard, accentuating its capability to engage in global shipbuilding ventures. The successful repair of the USNS Wally Schirra underscores the deepening collaboration between the U.S. and South Korean defense industries, benefiting from shared expertise and advanced technologies.