DAPA Signs Contract for Third Jang Bogo-III Batch-II Submarine Construction for S.Korean Navy

The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), led by Director Eom Dong-hwan, finalized a contract with Hanwha Ocean for the construction of the third ship, Jang Bogo-Ⅲ Batch*-Ⅱ, valued at KRW 1,101.9 billion.

The contract was signed on Friday, December 22, the DAPA confirmed in a statement today.

The Jang Bogo-Ⅲ Batch-Ⅱ submarine project, initiated in July 2016, reached a milestone with the commencement of construction on the lead ship and second ship in May and December 2021, respectively. Larger and heavier than its predecessors Dosan Ahn Chang-ho and Anmu ships, the Batch-Ⅱ submarine features an upgraded combat system and sonar system for enhanced detection and target processing.

The Batch-Ⅱ submarine is anticipated to be the second globally equipped with lithium batteries, contributing to improved stealth and operational sustainability capabilities. With a focus on achieving an 80% localization rate, the submarines aim to enhance operational rates through timely repair parts and maintenance technical support.

Acting Senior Civil Servant Noh Ji-man, Director of Defense Acquisition Program Administration's Korean Submarine Business Division, expressed expectations for the smooth operation of the Jang Bogo-Ⅲ Batch-Ⅱ project, emphasizing its potential to showcase South Korea's submarine construction technology globally.

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

The Jang Bogo 3 Batch-II, currently in operation, is designed with vertical launch tubes for submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), offering operational flexibility and ensuring mission confidentiality. Developed by Hanwha Ocean, this submarine represents a significant advancement in South Korean naval capabilities.

The Jangbogo-III Batch-II, weighing 3,600 tons and measuring about 90 meters in length, features larger launch tubes to deploy SLBMs, accommodating missile systems of different navies. The submarine's internal layout includes two decks, housing a 50-member crew, and notably, female crew members will serve onboard for the first time, with dedicated living spaces.

Powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system and air-independent propulsion (AIP), the submarine's AIP system enables extended underwater operations without surfacing for oxygen, setting a world record for continuous operation among diesel submarines.