KDDX Contractor Selection Method Likely Concluded in November... HD Hyundai Heavy Industries' Victory or Hanwha Ocean's Comeback?

➀ The selection method for Korea’s next-generation destroyer (KDDX) project, valued at 7.8 trillion KRW (~$5.8 billion USD), is expected to be finalized in November 2025, ending a two-year delay. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (basic design contractor) and Hanwha Ocean (concept design contractor) are competing between a sole-source contract or joint development model.➁ The sole-source contract favors HD Hyundai for technical consistency, while joint development proposes dual participation in detailed design and simultaneous shipbuilding to accelerate deployment. However, joint development risks complexity, unclear accountability, and potential delays.➂ Industry observers anticipate controversy regardless of the decision, as both models have distinct pros and cons. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) faces pressure to balance expertise, timelines, and political demands.