[THE INVESTOR] Hyundai Heavy Industries will build a 4,500-ton training ship for the South Korean Navy by 2020, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration said on July 19.

“A conference on launching the training ship development program was held with officials from Hyundai Heavy, military and other concerned organizations in attendance,” the DAPA said. 

“The basic development plans, detailed schedule and other elements were discussed.”

The DAPA signed on HHI for the 260 billion won (US$ 228 million) contract on June 28. The ship, which will be delivered in 2020, will be capable of carrying a crew of 100, and 300 trainees, the DAPA said.

The ship will also be fitted with some weapons systems, and will serve in rescue missions and as a support vessel in time of emergencies or war.

By Choi He-suk (cheesuk@heraldcorp.com)