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)
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
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
Avalon 2025: Kongsberg confirms its first Australian missile factory
The deal, which has been planned since August 2024, is part of an ongoing attempt to bolster Australia’s defences against the potential of Chinese aggression.
-
TKMS joins forces with Norwegian shipbuilder for Fridtjof Nansen frigate replacement bid
Four shipbuilders have been downselected to build the frigate replacement programme, and TKMS hopes the new deal will give it a geographical advantage.
-
As Australian resistance rises, is AUKUS in trouble?
The tripartite submarine project is under political pressure from a grass-roots Australian Labor Party movement, but it could also have practical issues in its way.