The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) held a delivery ceremony at HJ Shipbuilding & Construction’s Yeongdo shipyard in Busan on Friday.
The Geomdoksuri-B program is designed to replace the Navy’s aging Chamsuri-class patrol killer medium (PKM) vessels. DAPA completed the Batch I program from 2017 to 2022 and began the Batch II program in 2022. The first Batch II vessel was launched in 2025 before undergoing sea trials.
The upgraded vessel retains the same major equipment as its Batch I predecessor but features improvements to its combat system, operability and electronic warfare capabilities.
In particular, control and firing functions for its 130mm guided rocket system and 12.7mm remote weapon system have been integrated into the ship’s combat system. Its anti-jamming capabilities have also been strengthened to improve resistance to electronic warfare.
The vessel is also equipped with a 76mm naval gun, search and tracking radars, electronic warfare equipment and naval tactical data communications systems, according to DAPA’s equipment diagram.
“The first Geomdoksuri-B Batch II vessel has overwhelming on-site response capabilities that will deter enemy provocations,” said Choi Sang-deok, head of DAPA’s naval ship program division.
After completing the Navy’s operationalization process, the vessel will be deployed to waters near the NLL for territorial defense missions. DAPA plans to deliver three additional Batch II vessels to the Navy by the end of 2026.
AJP Takeaways:
· South Korea delivered the first Geomdoksuri-B Batch II fast patrol craft to the Navy on Aug. 14, 2026.
· The upgraded vessel features integrated 130mm guided rockets, a 12.7mm remote weapon system and stronger anti-jamming capabilities.
· Three more Batch II patrol craft are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026.
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