Hanwha Systems may be reshaping Korean naval operations with a new unmanned surface vessel (USV) designed to coordinate strikes alongside manned ships and command posts.
Unveiled at the Eurosatory 2026 exhibition in Paris, the Striker-S is conceived as a modular multi-mission platform capable of carrying containerized payloads of up to 10 tons.
This gives it versatility to shift between roles ranging from reconnaissance to strike missions, with Hanwha stating it can be fitted with systems such as advanced radar suites or guided weapons.
The USV measures over 35 meters (115 feet) in length and features angular hull shaping intended to reduce its radar signature.
With a beam of 6 meters (20 feet), the Striker-S is reportedly larger than several attack craft currently operating in conflict zones such as Ukraine and the Red Sea.
“Following the recent Strait of Hormuz blockade … Hanwha Systems plans to actively target overseas export markets in Europe and elsewhere, as well as the domestic market, with Striker-S at the forefront,” a Hanwha official said, as quoted by Seoul Economic Daily.
Integrating Chunmoo Firepower
At the core of the Striker-S concept is integration with Hanwha’s Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system.
Chunmoo supports a range of guided munitions with a reach of up to 290 kilometers (180 miles) for long-range strikes, alongside anti-ship ballistic missiles equipped with imaging infrared seekers for engaging moving targets.
The USV also carries a sensor suite centered on an active electronically scanned array radar, providing aerial detection out to 50 kilometers (31 miles) and surface surveillance up to 30 kilometers (19 miles).
Hanwha positions the Striker-S as a sustained combat platform designed for continuous operations, in contrast to single-use “suicide” drone systems.
