Hanwha Defense announced today the appointment of Tom Anderson, a retired rear admiral who previously oversaw U.S. Navy ship construction and maintenance, as the head of its American shipbuilding business.
Veteran Navy Leader to Spearhead Hanwha’s US Expansion
According to a company statement, Anderson will be responsible for executing Hanwha’s U.S. shipbuilding programs and shipyard operations. His role includes developing the company’s strategy for future shipbuilding programs and building the necessary infrastructure and workforce to support growth.
Expertise from a Distinguished Naval Career
Anderson’s appointment brings significant expertise to Hanwha. As the former program executive officer for ships, he oversaw one of the Navy’s largest shipbuilding acquisition portfolios, including Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, amphibious vessels, and future surface combatants like DDG(X).
„Tom has had a distinguished and impactful naval career, and we are delighted to bring his deep industry expertise, creative thinking, and demonstrated leadership to Hanwha,” said Mike Smith, president and CEO of Hanwha Defense USA. „This is a pivotal time for the Navy and U.S. shipbuilding writ large. Tom brings a wealth of experience and unique perspectives that will accelerate the delivery of novel solutions to our customers’ most elusive industrial base challenges.”
Deepening Ties with the US Defense Industrial Base
Hanwha’s announcement underscores the South Korean conglomerate’s aggressive push to integrate into the American defense industrial base. A key element of this strategy was the acquisition of Philly Shipyard in December 2024, a former Navy facility previously owned by a Norwegian industrial investment group.
Increased Interest in US Shipbuilding
Hanwha’s move is part of a broader trend. Amid calls from the White House for increased investment in American shipbuilding, other foreign firms, such as Canada’s Davie Shipbuilding and Hanwha competitor HD Hyundai Heavy, have also either purchased or publicly considered acquiring US-based shipyards.
