South Korea receives first Batch-III frigate and issues contracts for other vessels
ROKS Chungnam, the first-of-class FFX Batch-III frigate, was handed over to the ROKN on 18 December 2024. (Photo: HD HHI)
South Korea is moving ahead at speed with its frigate programme, involving both domestic heavy-hitting shipbuilders.
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) formally handed over the first-of-class ROKS Chungnam, an FFX Batch-III frigate, in a ceremony in Ulsan on 18 December 2024.
The same day, Hanwha Ocean announced receipt of a contract for the first pair of follow-on Batch-IV frigates.
HD HHI signed the Batch-III detailed design and construction contract with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) in March 2020. This lead ship for the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) was launched in December 2022 and, measuring 129m long and with a 30kt top speed, the class features an integrated sensor mast with a four-sided
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Helsing unveils new AI-enabled uncrewed underwater glider]()
Helsing unveils new AI-enabled uncrewed underwater glider
The glider, named SG-1 Fathom, has been designed to be scalable and affordable, and can be deployed for up to three months at a time, according to Helsing.
-
![Will the US be able to make its shipbuilding industry “great again”?]()
Will the US be able to make its shipbuilding industry “great again”?
The White House and Congress have been increasing efforts to support the national maritime industry.
-
![Euroatlas brings Greyshark AUV to Asia for its maiden visit]()
Euroatlas brings Greyshark AUV to Asia for its maiden visit
Euroatlas displayed its Greyshark autonomous underwater vehicle outside Europe for the first time, highlighting variant specifications and development progress at IMDEX 2025.
-
![Metal Shark starts production on HSMUSVs as US shipyard targets further Caribbean orders]()
Metal Shark starts production on HSMUSVs as US shipyard targets further Caribbean orders
The US shipyard’s new High Speed Maneuverable Unmanned Surface Vessel (HSMUSV) will have a range of more than 500 nautical miles.
