South Korea Launches Four New High-Speed Coastal Patrol Ships

South Korea’s Navy launched four 230-ton Chamsuri-class Batch II high-speed patrol boats on December 8 at HJ Shipbuilding & Construction’s shipyard in Busan, about 330 kilometers southeast of Seoul.

According to the Navy and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), the vessels — Chamsuri-231, 232, 233, and 235 — are the first four ships of the new Batch II program. Each patrol boat is 45 m long and classified as a patrol killer medium rocket ship.

South Korean media reported that the ships are armed with 130 mm guided rockets and a 76 mm naval gun. They are also equipped with search radar, electro-optical tracking systems, an integrated combat system, and electronic warfare equipment with strengthened anti-jamming functions. Control and launch functions for the 130 mm guided rockets and the 12.7 mm remote-controlled weapon system are now fully integrated into the combat system.

Compared to the earlier 150-ton Chamsuri-class patrol boats, the new 230-ton Batch I and II vessels carry heavier weapons and upgraded sensors. Compared with Batch I, the Batch II ships feature changes to combat system operation and improved user control functions.

The four patrol boats will now undergo sea trials. Delivery to the Navy is scheduled between August and November 2026. Operational deployment will follow after force integration procedures are completed.

Once deployed, the vessels will be stationed in forward maritime areas. Their missions will include coastal surveillance and operations to block and eliminate infiltrating forces.