Gyeongnam Province Initiates Naval MRO Cluster to Capitalize on $13.3 Billion Defense Exports
Gyeongnam Province announced on December 11 its initiative to establish a 'Gyeongnam-type Naval MRO Cluster' to dominate the US Navy's naval MRO market, leveraging its projected defense export performance of $13.3 billion by 2025. This figure accounts for over 80% of South Korea's total defense orders of $15.2 billion.
The initiative aims to bolster the global competitiveness of the Korean defense industry and position Gyeongnam as a key defense hub in the Asia-Pacific region. From 2026 to 2030, Gyeongnam will invest KRW 99 billion in the cluster, focusing on enhancing the capabilities of small and medium-sized shipyards through certifications, facility support, and workforce training. The project aligns with the Defense Innovation Cluster 2.0, aiming to create a comprehensive support center and technology development projects for a global MRO hub.
