Hanwha Philly Shipyard Secures Major Contract to Build the Next‑Generation Golden Dome Missile‑Tracking Ship

Philadelphia’s Hanwha Philly Shipyard Inc. (HPSI) announced on Monday that it has been awarded a high‑profile contract to build the newest Missile Range Instrument Vessel (MRIV) for the U.S. Missile Defense Agency. The ship, which will be part of the so‑called “Golden Dome” missile‑defense initiative, is set to replace two veteran platforms – the SS Pacific Tracker (built in 1965) and the SS Pacific Collector (launched in 1970).

According to officials, the new vessel – tentatively dubbed the “Golden Defender” – will feature cutting‑edge radar, telemetry and data‑fusion systems capable of tracking hypersonic missiles and other fast‑moving threats across the entire continental United States. In short, it’s meant to give America a clearer eye in the sky, something senior leaders have said is sorely needed after decades of relying on aging hardware.

The project will be overseen by TOTE Services Inc., which will act as the vessel construction manager. TOTE will handle everything from issuing sub‑contracts to the various shipyard trades, to supervising the actual build and eventual delivery. The partnership marks the first time the two companies have teamed up on a defense‑focused maritime platform.

During a visit to the shipyard on Friday, Russell Vought – director of the Office of Management and Budget – praised the effort, noting that “this new ship will not only support President Trump’s policy of restoring America’s maritime dominance, but also underpin the Golden Dome system that shields our nation from missile threats.” Vought was there to christen the Lone Star State National Security Multi‑Mission Vessel, a separate project that underscores the administration’s broader push to revamp the U.S. naval fleet.

While the contract’s exact dollar value was not disclosed, insiders say it runs into the low hundreds of millions, reflecting the sophisticated technology that will be installed on board. The ship is slated for construction later this year, with an expected launch in 2028 and delivery to the Missile Defense Agency shortly thereafter.

Industry analysts view the award as a win for domestic shipbuilding, especially at a time when the Pentagon is eager to reduce reliance on foreign yards. Hanwha Philly Shipyard, a joint venture between South Korea’s Hanwha Group and the former Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, has been positioning itself as a premier supplier of advanced maritime platforms, and this contract could cement that reputation.

In the meantime, the shipyard’s workforce – now numbering over 1,200 skilled tradespeople – is gearing up for a flurry of activity. “We’re ready to deliver a ship that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the Missile Defense Agency,” said a senior project manager at HPSI. “It’s an honor to contribute to something as vital as national security.”