Hanwha Ocean joins Poland’s Orka race: South Korea offers submarines, tech transfer and industrial investment

South Korean defense and shipbuilding giant Hanwha Ocean has unveiled its comprehensive proposal for Poland’s Orka program—a strategic submarine procurement initiative aimed at modernizing the Polish Navy’s underwater capabilities. The offer includes not only the delivery of cutting-edge submarines but also extensive technology transfer and industrial cooperation with Polish shipyards and suppliers.

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07 april 2025   |   13:23   |   Source: Gazeta Morska   |   Prepared by: Kamil Kusier   |   Print

fot. Hanwha Ocean

KSS-I for interim capability, KSS-III Batch 2 as the core solution

At the heart of Hanwha’s proposal lies the leasing of a KSS-I class submarine, intended as a bridging solution to maintain the Polish Navy’s operational readiness and training continuity until new platforms are commissioned.

The main procurement component involves the delivery of three state-of-the-art KSS-III Batch 2 submarines, with a delivery timeline of just 8.5 years from contract signing.

Technology transfer and localized production

A key strength of the offer is the commitment to establishing a permanent maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) center in Poland. This facility would provide full lifecycle support for the submarines and foster long-term industrial cooperation. Hanwha also pledges a robust technology transfer package, including local production of critical systems and components, as well as advanced training for Polish engineers and technicians.

$100 million industrial investment and support for R&D

Hanwha Ocean’s offer includes a $100 million investment package, targeting several strategic areas:

• modernization of shipbuilding and maintenance infrastructure,
• development of Polish supply chain capabilities,
• training and upskilling of engineering talent,
• support for national research and development (R&D) initiatives in the maritime and defense sectors.

This level of commitment marks a significant shift from traditional procurement models and signals a desire for long-term industrial partnership.

Flexible financing and a competitive edge over European rivals

Another key differentiator is the proposed flexible financing model, tailored to Poland’s fiscal realities. Hanwha’s bid is positioned as not only technologically competitive but also economically advantageous compared to existing European submarine offers.

A strategic partnership beyond platforms

Hanwha Ocean emphasizes its vision of a strategic, long-term partnership that goes beyond hardware delivery. The proposal is designed to enhance Poland’s sovereign capabilities in submarine operations, while simultaneously stimulating the growth of its naval, defense, and innovation ecosystems.

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