South Korea Approves New FFX Batch-IV Frigate Program

South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) approved the 'Ulsan Class Batch-IV Project', also known as FFX Batch-IV, during the 161st Defense Project Promotion Committee meeting held on April 26 at the Ministry of Defense in Yongsan.

The ROK Navy and DAPA strongly support the FFX Batch-IV initiative to replace the FFX Batch-III ‘Chungnam’ class frigates, aiming to procure six new frigates by 2032 with the same design. This program will renew the fleet, replacing the ‘Pohang’ class corvettes (PCC), ‘Ulsan’ class frigates (FF), and former flagship ‘Gwanggaeto’ class destroyer (DDH-I).

The new FFX Batch-IV frigates will integrate advanced armament systems managed by a combat management system, localize the Engineering Control System (ECS) for improved propulsion management, introduce the "Electronic Warfare Equipment for Ship-II" for enhanced electronic warfare, and implement CIWS-II for close-in defense against multiple threats.

Upgrades include the SSM-700K C-Star AShM, SAAM-400K, Red Shark anti-submarine missiles, and Tactical Surface Launch Missiles (TSLM) managed by the combat system. Hanwha Systems will provide core ECS technologies for stable propulsion management.

The FFX Batch-III frigate, known for escort and coastal defense, is seen as capable of replacing the ‘Gwanggaeto Great’ class destroyer. It features advanced TASS and GaN Full-Digital AESA radar for improved submarine detection.

The Electronic Warfare Equipment for Ship-II enhances electromagnetic detection, identification, and neutralization. CIWS-II, developed by LIG Nex1, uses stealth design and AESA radar for superior threat defense. The CIWS-II project, running until 2036 at a cost of 895.7 billion won, will bolster the frigates' defense against aircraft, drones, and supersonic anti-ship missiles.