Hanwha Ocean Begins Construction of 3,600t-Class Submarine No. 3

Improved Detection and Target Processing Performance... World's Second Lithium-Ion Battery Equipped

Hanwha Ocean has commenced the construction of the Jangbogo-Ⅲ Batch-Ⅱ third submarine, a 3600-ton class vessel.

On the 31st, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced that it held a construction commencement meeting for the Jangbogo-Ⅲ Batch-Ⅱ third submarine at Hanwha Ocean in Geoje, Gyeongsangnam-do, attended by the Navy, the Agency for Defense Development, the Defense Technology Quality Institute, and other related organizations.

Last December 22, DAPA signed a construction contract worth 1.1019 trillion KRW with Hanwha Ocean. The Jangbogo-Ⅲ project involves securing three 3000-ton Batch-I submarines and three 3600-ton Batch-Ⅱ submarines. Two Batch-I submarines have already been deployed in active service, and the remaining one will be delivered to the Navy in the first half of this year. The first and second Batch-Ⅱ submarines are under construction, and the construction of the final third submarine has now begun.

All six submarines secured through the Jangbogo-Ⅲ project will be equipped with vertical launch systems capable of firing ballistic missiles. Batch-Ⅱ submarines are larger than Batch-I and are equipped with combat and sonar systems with improved detection and target processing capabilities. Additionally, Batch-Ⅱ applies the latest noise reduction technologies extensively, ensuring high stealth and survivability. DAPA explained that it will be the second in the world to be equipped with lithium-ion batteries, significantly enhancing underwater operational endurance.

Han Kyung-ho, head of DAPA’s Future Power Project Headquarters, evaluated, "The commencement of construction for the Jangbogo-Ⅲ Batch-Ⅱ third submarine today is highly significant as it contributes to securing our military’s core capabilities, enhancing the export competitiveness of domestic defense companies, and creating jobs, thereby benefiting the national economy."