South Korea moves ahead with new frigates
The Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) continues to modernise, with a design and production contract being awarded to Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) for the Ulsan-class Batch III frigate.
The contract is worth KRW400 billion ($320 million), and it authorises HHI to perform detailed design work and build the first-of-class vessel. In total, six of these 3,500t ships are planned for this FFX batch.
The deal with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) was announced by HHI on 16 March. The first of the class is scheduled to be delivered in 2024.
Nam Sang-hoon, senior executive VP of HHI, commented:
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
-
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.
-
Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq
The Canadian Department of National Defence is evaluating communications and reconnaissance changes for CCGS Imnaryuaq’s expanded maritime security role, while retaining its 2032 acceptance target.
-
All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids
Responses are due by 29 October as the Royal Navy tests the market, with BAE Systems’ Herne and MSubs’ Excalibur setting up a contest where payloads may decide the winner.
-
US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests
Boeing has outlined its upcoming precision-landing and carrier-airspace trials as MQ-25 manufacturing shifts towards Illinois, with initial Lot 1 deliveries expected in 2029.