The U.S. Navy’s Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Wally Schirra departed South Korea on March 13 after six months of maintenance and repairs, marking the first time a U.S. naval vessel has undergone such work in the country.
The milestone underscores growing defense industry cooperation as Washington turns to allied shipyards for fleet maintenance amid efforts to bolster regional security.
South Korean shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean, which handled the project, said the vessel underwent hull and engine maintenance, equipment inspections, replacements, and system upgrades. It did not disclose further details due to U.S. Navy security regulations.
“This project showcases the strength of the U.S.-South Korea partnership and the dedication of Hanwha Ocean employees and the Wally Schirra crew,” Cmdr. Patrick J. Moore, commanding officer of the Military Sealift Command Office Korea, said in a statement.
Hanwha Ocean is also servicing the USNS Yukon, a Henry J. Kaiser-class replenishment oiler, under a contract awarded in November 2024. Other South Korean shipbuilders, including HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, are pursuing U.S. Navy maintenance contracts as the sector expands.
