Hanwha Ocean has unveiled a next-generation strategic surface ship concept, envisioned as a flagship platform for South Korea’s naval defense industry.
The futuristic vessel will feature a wave-piercing hull designed to cut through rough seas, paired with a tumblehome structure that enhances stealth by reducing its radar signature so it can remain undetected.
Beyond stealth, the hull houses layered weapon systems deployed in stages capable of responding to a wide range of threats, from ballistic missiles to suicide drones.
While the ship retains the size of its predecessors, its most notable evolution lies in AI-driven automation, built to streamline operations for a 70-person crew.
“With the changing global security environment and the intensifying competition for maritime supremacy surrounding our country, we need a new platform as an alternative to address these challenges,” Hanwha Ocean President Eo Sung-chul said.
“This is the result of Hanwha Ocean’s commitment to technological prowess and innovation, leaving a significant milestone in the history of Korean naval vessels.”
Taking the Lead
The ship will be made of “giga-class” steel, co-developed with Pohang Iron and Steel Company, offering greater impact resistance while reducing overall weight.
Inside, a smart bridge speeds up decision-making and enhances situational awareness, while its ergonomic layout improves comfort for the crew during extended missions.
A modular mission bay allows the integration of unmanned systems, boosting the platform’s defense against both environmental obstacles and battlefield threats.
Hanwha Ocean expects the concept to serve as a foundation for future Republic of Korea Navy vessels over the next three decades. The design debuted at the recent Next-Generation Smart Ship Technology Research Conference in Seoul.
