Hanwha Defense USA has appointed retired Rear Admiral Tom Anderson as President of its U.S. Shipbuilding Division, underscoring the South Korean conglomerate’s growing ambitions in the American maritime sector.
Anderson, who served 34 years in the U.S. Navy, brings extensive shipbuilding and acquisition experience to the role. He previously served as Program Executive Officer for Ships and as acting head of the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), where he oversaw the Navy’s fleet construction programs.
In his new position, Anderson will lead Hanwha’s U.S. shipbuilding operations, manage strategic growth initiatives, and oversee infrastructure and workforce expansion. His leadership is expected to play a central role as Hanwha strengthens its position in the U.S. defense and commercial shipbuilding markets.
This leadership transition follows Hanwha’s recent acquisition of Philly Shipyard for approximately $100 million, a move that rebranded the facility as Hanwha Philly Shipyard. The acquisition marks a key step in Hanwha’s long-term strategy to increase U.S. shipbuilding capacity and technological collaboration.
Hanwha has also announced plans to invest up to $5 billion in infrastructure improvements at the Philadelphia site. The investment includes new dry docks, quays, and an advanced block assembly facility aimed at boosting productivity and supporting both defense and commercial projects.
In a major milestone for the U.S. commercial fleet, Hanwha’s shipping subsidiary recently ordered 10 Medium Range (MR) oil and chemical tankers from Hanwha Philly Shipyard — the largest U.S. commercial ship order in more than two decades. The first vessel is expected to be delivered in early 2029.
Through these initiatives, Hanwha aims to contribute to revitalizing America’s shipbuilding capacity while reinforcing strategic defense cooperation between the United States and South Korea.
