Hanwha Ocean Starts Constructing Third Jang Bogo-Ⅲ Batch-Ⅱ Submarine for South Korea

South Korea's Hanwha Ocean has initiated the construction of its third and final 3,600-ton-class naval submarine, aimed at enhancing defense capabilities against North Korean threats, according to the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA).

The agency announced that it had inked a KRW 1,101.9 billion ($829 million) contract with Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd. on December 22, 2023, for the construction of the Jang Bogo-Ⅲ Batch-Ⅱ submarine. The kick-off meeting for the project took place on January 31 at Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd. in Geoje, marking the commencement of the third ship, which is the last in the Jang Bogo-Ⅲ Batch-Ⅱ construction initiative.

The meeting involved key stakeholders, including DAPA, the Navy, Agency for Defense Development, and Defense Agency for Technology and Quality. Discussions centered on the project schedule, design, production plans, and local production arrangements.

The Jang Bogo-Ⅲ Batch-Ⅱ submarine project, integral to the underwater kill chain, commenced in July 2016. After the basic and detailed design phases, construction began on the lead ship in May 2021, followed by the second ship in December 2021.

The Batch-Ⅱ submarine is characterized by its larger size and weight compared to previously delivered Dosan Ahn Chang-ho and Anmu ships. It features an enhanced combat system and sonar system with improved detection and target processing capabilities. The incorporation of the latest noise reduction technology aims to ensure higher stealth and survivability, complemented by the use of lithium-ion batteries for improved underwater operational capabilities.

The South Korean military, with a track record of more than 30 accident-free years in submarine operations since 1993, emphasizes the Jang Bogo-Ⅲ submarine's reliability and safety. The high localization rate enhances operational maintenance and follow-up logistics support, making it competitive in the international market.

The construction of the third ship is slated for completion by 2029, followed by test operations and delivery to the Navy in 2031.

The Batch-Ⅱ submarine, part of the Changbogo-III or KSS-III program, is designed to contribute to South Korea's defense capabilities, particularly in addressing North Korean threats. The vessel is expected to play a crucial role in the Kill Chain preemptive strike platform, equipped with submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) and advanced technologies for improved stealthiness and extended underwater missions.