South Korea to upgrade amphibious assault ship ROKS Dokdo
The 15-year-old ROKS Dokdo will undergo an upgrade that will see various subsystems such as its radars replaced. (Photo: US DoD)
The South Korean Navy is upgrading its oldest LPH, has awarded a contract for four new fast attack craft, and has changed tender evaluation processes following criticism from the biggest shipbuilders.
The Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) will give its oldest LPH, the 14,500t ROKS Dokdo, an upgrade. The work is to be completed by 2027 as part of a product improvement plan.
To this end, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) signed an LPX-I PIP contract worth $140 million on 29 November.
Dokdo was commissioned in 2007, so it has already completed 15 years of service. Furthermore, some parts are ready for replacement, and other components are no longer being manufactured.
The PIP will cover five main subsystems, which will bring ROKS Dokdo up to a similar configuration as
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]()
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.
-
![Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq]()
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.
