Hanwha Philly Shipyard plans to expand its workforce at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, aiming to hire up to 10,000 workers over the next five years.

The recruitment plan forms part of Hanwha’s strategy to increase production capacity by more than tenfold. Output is expected to rise from approximately 1.5 ships per year to around 20.

Hanwha Philly Shipyard is one of the largest shipyards in the United States, although the country’s shipbuilding output remains significantly below that of major Asian markets. In 2024, China delivered 1,000 ships, while the United States completed eight.

The US federal government is working to reduce this gap. In America’s Maritime Action Plan released in February, President Donald Trump called for expanding commercial shipbuilding capacity as part of a broader effort to strengthen the maritime sector.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has expressed support for the initiative, highlighting the potential for shipbuilding and maritime industries to play a larger role in the city’s economic base and employment.