South Korean Navy Receives ‘Jeongjo the Great’ Aegis Destroyer

The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) handed over the newest Aegis destroyer, Jeongjo the Great (DDG-995), to the South Korean Navy on November 27.

The delivery ceremony was held on November 27 at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ facility in Ulsan.

Built under a contract signed in October 2019, the 8,200-ton Aegis destroyer underwent two years of testing and evaluation after its launch in July 2022.

The Jeongjo the Great is equipped with an updated Aegis combat system capable of detecting, tracking, and intercepting ballistic missiles. This capability will support South Korea's sea-based mobile 3-axis system, designed to counter missile threats.

Compared to the Sejong the Great-class destroyers, the Jeongjo the Great boasts improved stealth performance, larger dimensions at 170 meters in length and 21 meters in width, and enhanced capabilities for anti-air, anti-submarine, and long-range strike operations.

For anti-air warfare, the destroyer features long-range ship-to-air guided missiles and advanced radar systems. In anti-submarine warfare, its integrated sonar system and compatibility with the MH-60R helicopter provide significant advantages against underwater threats.

Additionally, its propulsion system includes two auxiliary propulsion units alongside four gas turbine engines, enabling economical navigation by conserving fuel during routine operations.