Mar-a-lago: U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that South Korea's Hanwha will collaborate with the U.S. Navy in constructing new frigate warships, as part of plans to establish a new "Trump-class" of battleships. This development is part of South Korea's ongoing efforts to enhance shipbuilding ties with the United States, involving key industry players like Hanwha Ocean Co.

According to Yonhap News Agency, during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump mentioned that the U.S. Navy recently introduced a new class of frigates, which will involve collaboration with Hanwha. The U.S. Navy disclosed on Friday its plan to roll out these smaller, more agile combat ships to complement existing larger, multi-mission warships.

Trump praised Hanwha as a "good company," highlighting its recent decision to invest in the Philadelphia naval shipyard, referring to Hanwha's Philly Shipyard. In August, Hanwha Group committed to a US$5 billion investment in the shipyard, aligning with South Korea's $150 billion pledge towards U.S. shipbuilding cooperation under a broader trade agreement with the Trump administration.

Additionally, Trump unveiled plans for the U.S. Navy to develop two powerful new battleships as part of a "Golden Fleet." He emphasized that these 30-40,000 ton battleships would be "100 times more powerful" than any predecessors, with potential for up to 25 ships to be constructed.

These advanced warships are expected to be equipped with nuclear-armed, sea-launched cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons, rail guns, and high-powered lasers. Trump confirmed that the vessels will be built in the U.S., with negotiations set to occur with companies managing or acquiring naval yards.