South Korea Launches Second Ulsan-Class Batch-Ⅲ Frigate 'ROKS Gyeongbuk'

The Republic of Korea Navy launched its second Ulsan-class Batch-Ⅲ frigate, ROKS Gyeongbuk (FFG-829), on June 20 at the SK Ocean Plant shipyard in Goseong, Gyeongsangnam-do.

The vessel is designed to enhance anti-aircraft and anti-submarine capabilities and will serve as a main surface combatant of the maritime fleet.

Gyeongbuk is the second vessel of the Ulsan-class Batch-Ⅲ, following ROKS Chungnam. These ships are part of a phased modernization plan replacing older frigates and patrol combat corvettes currently in operation.

Built under a contract signed in December 2021, ROKS Gyeongbuk features a four-sided fixed multifunction phased array radar (MFR) and infrared detection and tracking systems, all developed using South Korean technology. These systems are housed within an Integrated Sensor Mast (ISM) designed for stealth performance.

The ship measures 129 meters in length, 14.8 meters in width, and 38.9 meters in height, with a displacement of 3,600 tons. It is armed with 5-inch guns, the Korean Vertical Launching System (KVLS), anti-ship missiles, tactical surface-to-surface missiles, and long-range anti-submarine torpedoes.

Its hybrid propulsion system, similar to the one used on the Batch-II Daegu-class frigates, minimizes acoustic signature and enhances anti-submarine warfare performance. Gyeongbuk is also equipped with domestically built hull-mounted sonar (HMS) and towed array sonar system (TASS).

The Gyeongbuk frigate is scheduled for delivery to the Navy in June 2026 after a testing and evaluation period. It will then undergo further upgrades before entering operational service.