South Korea approves more frigates plus SM-3 missiles
ROKS Chungnam, the first FFX Batch III frigate of the ROKN at its launch on 10 April 2023. (Photo: ROKN)
South Korea’s six FFX Batch IV frigates are expected to be delivered by 2032 and will full retirement of remaining Pohang-class corvettes and Ulsan-class frigates, and possibly Gwanggaeto-class destroyers.
Several important naval programmes were approved by South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Promotion Committee (DAPPC) on 26 April, including close-in weapon systems, follow-on frigates and shipborne ballistic-missile interceptors.
The committee gave assent to construction of new FFX Batch IV frigates for the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN). This represents the final phase of the FFX shipbuilding effort that will eventually see 26 frigates in service.
The final batch is based on the preceding FFX Batch III Chungnam-class design, but with upgrades such as the CIWS-II, a Hanwha Systems engineering control system and improved integration of armaments (including the SSM-700K
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Canada’s submarine availability under pressure as Chicoutimi is unlikely to return to front-line duties]()
Canada’s submarine availability under pressure as Chicoutimi is unlikely to return to front-line duties
HMCS Victoria and HMCS Windsor could return from their current deep maintenance, but unconfirmed operational timelines leave questions over patrol capacity before the first CPSP arrives.
-
![Poland’s naval modernisation plans point to $13 billion market]()
Poland’s naval modernisation plans point to $13 billion market
Poland is reshaping its naval capabilities through investments in surface and undersea fleets, with further procurement opportunities expected into the 2030s.
-
![Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders]()
Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders
Turkish shipbuilders have sold ships from Asia to Europe, but autonomy and swarm technology could give them a fairer fight against Western European rivals.
-
![France’s naval modernisation drives opportunities for European defence industry]()
France’s naval modernisation drives opportunities for European defence industry
Ahead of Euronaval 2026, major submarine, frigate and aircraft carrier programmes are driving investment, while future corvette replacements and growing interest in uncrewed vessels offer further opportunities for industry into the 2030s and beyond.
