South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries will advance its planned bid for Saudi Arabia’s next-generation frigate program at the biennial World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, the Middle East’s largest defense exhibition.
South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries will advance its planned bid for Saudi Arabia’s next-generation frigate program at the biennial World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, the Middle East’s largest defense exhibition.
The shipbuilder said it is showcasing its 6,000-ton HDF-6000 export frigate for the initiative, South Korean media reported.
Hyundai developed the HDF-6000 using experience gained from building the Republic of Korea Navy’s Sejong-class and Jeongjo-class destroyers.
It is fitted with upgraded Aegis combat systems and performance, which according to the company is appropriate to Royal Saudi Navy requirements.
Hyundai is offering the vessel under a package covering program management, sustainment, repair, and overall lifecycle support.
The company will also promote its localization strategy centered on the International Maritime Industries shipyard, a joint venture involving Riyadh’s state-owned firm Saudi Aramco.
During the event, Hyundai plans to sign agreements with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment and 12 Korean firms to help establish a local defense supply chain.
The convention runs through mid-February and is expected to draw more than 100,000 visitors and 770 defense firms from over 70 countries.
