TOTE Services has selected Hanwha Defense USA (HDUSA) to build one US Navy medium landing ship (LSM) at Hanwha Philly Shipyard under a US$269 million contract announced on Friday, October 30.
The award also includes the options for the construction of three additional LSMs.
TOTE Services said it had secured build positions that allow construction to begin in the fourth quarter of 2027.
TOTE Services invited qualified US shipyards to compete in a request for proposals in July, and HDUSA was the first shipbuilder chosen. TOTE Services said HDUSA's pricing was competitive and that it accepted the subcontract terms and conditions.
TOTE Services is the vessel construction manager (VCM) for the programme under a US$2.2 billion prime contract.
The contract covers up to eight LSMs towards a planned 35-ship fleet.
At the July award, the navy directed the VCM to manage subcontracts for one ship at Bollinger Shipyards and four at Fincantieri Marinette Marine, and left it to decide the award strategy for up to three more. Contract discussions with both directed yards are continuing.
The first LSM is now expected in 2030.
"Hanwha Philly Shipyard has already built and delivered four National Security Multi-Mission Vessels under the VCM model with TOTE Services, and we will leverage that experience to deliver the LSM to the US Navy and Marine Corps," said Tim Glinatsis, HDUSA's Senior Vice President of Program Management.