Peru and South Korea Unite for Submarine Development
**Peru and South Korea have officially entered into a significant agreement for the joint development of submarine projects during the SITDEF 2025 defense fair in Lima.** This collaboration signals a bold step forward in enhancing naval defense capabilities, with the state-owned shipyard SIMA (Servicios Industriales de la Marina) partnering with South Korea’s notable defense manufacturer, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI). The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aims to create a new variant of submarines based on the HDS-1500 design, thereby contributing to the modernization of the Peruvian Navy.
At the SITDEF 2025 event, the leaders of SIMA PERÚ and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries emphasized the importance of the agreement for both countries’ defense industries. Reports indicate that the HDS-1500 model, which remains relatively unknown in public circles, is on track for further development. It has recently received Principle Approval (AIP) from Det Norske Veritas – Germanischer Lloyd (DNV-GL), a well-respected classification society, paving the way for the next phases of design and construction.
Project Timeline and Anticipated Developments
The development phase for the new submarine design is projected to last between two and three years. Following this, should the necessary funding be secured, construction is expected to take an additional four years before the first submarines are operational. These advanced vessels are designed to replace the aging Type 209/1100 Islay Class and Type 209/1200 Angamos Class submarines that have seen decades of service in Peru’s naval inventory.
This recent agreement is a follow-on to an MoU established during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in November 2024. That earlier agreement also focused on collaboration in submarine development, which reflects a deepening partnership between Peru and South Korea. Furthermore, the two entities have conducted ceremonies to kick off the construction of an offshore patrol vessel and two logistic ships, showcasing their commitment to enhancing maritime security.
Showcasing Innovations at SITDEF 2025
South Korea’s commitment to innovation was evident at SITDEF 2025, with the unveiling of the HDS-1500 submarine concept. This model promises to incorporate advanced technologies tailored to meet the evolving challenges faced by modern navies. The collaboration illustrates South Korea’s strategic partnership with Peru, as both nations aim to bolster their defense capabilities in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
Additionally, in alignment with military advancements, South Korea’s K2 tanks have also begun arriving in Peru. This development not only supports the modernization efforts of the Peruvian Armed Forces but also signifies a broader defense cooperation that encompasses land and naval domains. The joint initiatives underline a commitment to secure and enhance defense capabilities in a region marked by shifting security dynamics.
