KDX-III Batch-II Destroyer Photos and video: KFN
Ulsan, South Korea – Hyundai Heavy Industries held a ceremony at its shipyard in Ulsan to mark the delivery of ROKS Jeongjo the Great, the lead destroyer of the KDX-III Batch-II project, to the Republic of Korea Navy.
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The ship, named after the 22nd monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, is the first of three next-generation destroyers built domestically. The event was attended by South Korean naval officials and diplomats from various countries, including U.S. Consul Nolan Barkhouse and representatives from Ecuador, Poland, Morocco, Chile, Thailand, and Peru.
In addition to the destroyer, diplomats also inspected the frigate of the Chungnam class, which is scheduled to be delivered to the South Korean Navy next month. Hyundai Heavy Industries highlighted that the event could boost warship exports, particularly to markets such as Poland and Peru.
Specifications and Technological Advancements
ROKS Jeongjo the Great is equipped with the advanced Aegis system, enabling it to intercept ballistic missiles with high precision. The destroyer is 170 meters long (3 meters longer than the first series), 21 meters wide, and has a standard displacement of 8,100 tons. It can reach a maximum speed of 30 knots, making it one of the most advanced ships in the South Korean fleet.
Construction of Jeongjo the Great began in 2021, with its launch in July 2022. Since then, the ship has undergone more than 550 tests before being delivered. The Batch-II series contract was signed in 2019, and Hyundai plans to launch the second destroyer in the series, ROKS Dasan Jeong Yak-yong, next year. Construction of the third ship has recently commenced.
Strategic Investment
The total cost of the project is estimated at 3.9 trillion won (approximately $3.3 billion). With these deliveries, South Korea reinforces its maritime capabilities and establishes itself as a leader in producing technologically advanced destroyers in the Pacific region.
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What is a Destroyer?
A destroyer is a type of fast, highly maneuverable warship designed to escort larger ships in a fleet, battle group, or convoy, and protect them from smaller but potentially dangerous threats like submarines, aircraft, and small attack boats.
Destroyers are equipped with a variety of weapons, including naval guns, torpedoes, anti-aircraft, and anti-ship missiles, along with advanced radar and sonar systems. Due to their versatility and capability to operate in various scenarios, destroyers are considered essential components of modern navies.
Photos and video: KFN. Source: Hyundai Heavy Industries. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
