Hanwha Acquires 9.9% Stake in Austal, Eyes 19.9%

Hanwha Group has acquired a 9.9% stake in Australian shipbuilder Austal, positioning itself to potentially become the largest shareholder pending approval from the Australian Foreign Investment Review Board. The acquisition, facilitated through a local brokerage and a Total Return Swap agreement for an additional 9.9%, aims to strengthen Hanwha's business ties with the U.S., particularly given Austal's significant contracts with the U.S. Navy. This investment follows Hanwha's previous unsuccessful takeover attempt last year and reflects the company's strategy to enhance its global defense capabilities amid rising demand in the shipbuilding sector. Austal's stock surged approximately 9.7% following the announcement, highlighting investor optimism regarding Hanwha's plans. Analysts suggest that this move could expand Austal's leverage in U.S. defense contracts, aligning with increased military spending under the current U.S. administration. Hanwha's global defense strategy emphasizes investment in local manufacturing, which may bolster Australia's defense industry.