Peru and South Korea Sign Strategic Agreement for the Co-production and Co-development of Submarines

In December 2025, Peru and South Korea signed a strategic agreement for the co-production and co-development of next-generation submarines. This represents a milestone that will enable SIMA Peru and the Peruvian Navy (MGP) to acquire and build submarines with advanced technology, strengthening the country's technological independence and its naval industry, with the support of Hyundai Heavy Industries. Key aspects of the agreement: Companies involved: Hyundai Heavy Industries (South Korea) and SIMA Peru (State Shipyards). Purpose: Co-production of submarines, with technology transfer and collaboration from the country's industry. Benefits for Peru: Fostering maritime sovereignty, establishing a high-value-added industrial cluster, and developing naval capabilities. Submarine category: The HDS-1500MGP design is intended to include lithium-ion batteries and advanced systems. Context: This is the first submarine co-development project for a Latin American nation and strengthens strategic cooperation between Peru and South Korea in defense, which includes the additional purchase of armored vehicles and tanks. This agreement represents significant progress for the Peruvian Navy, which is moving from being merely a recipient to becoming a co-developer of naval technology.