Hyundai delivers Polar-class logistics support ship
Hyundai Heavy Industries has delivered the Polar-class fleet tanker/replenishment vessel HMNZS Aotearoa to the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), following successful completion of sea trials.
SeaQuest Marine Project Management oversaw the shipbuilding process in Ulsan, South Korea, with the vessel departing the site on 10 June.
HMNZS Aotearoa will provide global sustainment capabilities to the NZDF and ensure adequate supply of air, land and maritime equipment including ammunition and fuel.
Jan Andersson, CEO of SeaQuest, said: ‘Once again we have proven that our experience in supervision and familiarity with Far Eastern builders can aid a new building project like no one else. This is the third time we have looked after a naval support ship, first from Royal Fleet Auxiliary UK, second from NDLO Norway and now from NZ Crown.’
The vessel is winterised and ice-strengthened to allow the NZDF to operate and support operations in the Antarctic.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
You may also like
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Coast Guard seeks national and foreign suppliers for light and medium icebreakers]()
US Coast Guard seeks national and foreign suppliers for light and medium icebreakers
Contracts for new light and medium cutters are expected to be awarded in mid-2026.
-
![Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening]()
Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening
The new underwater vehicle has been described as an “important deterrent” thanks to its ability to operate undetected for extended periods of time.
-
![First Canadian Coast Guard Polar Icebreaker is “on track” for keel laying in late 2026]()
First Canadian Coast Guard Polar Icebreaker is “on track” for keel laying in late 2026
Canadian Coast Guard Ship Arpatuuq construction is in the block manufacturing phase. Once built, it will be the largest vessel in the Coast Guard’s inventory.
-
![US Navy extends the deadline for submitting proposals for the Next Generation Logistics Ship]()
US Navy extends the deadline for submitting proposals for the Next Generation Logistics Ship
NAVSEA plans to select up to three suppliers for the concept design phase of the programme in Q2 FY2026.
-
![South Korea displays domestic technology capabilities with KSS-III submarine launch]()
South Korea displays domestic technology capabilities with KSS-III submarine launch
Hanwha Ocean’s Jang Yeong-sil is the Republic of Korea Navy’s first 3,600t submarine and is the first of three boats in the military’s KSS-III programme.
