HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has launched the 'Daehokim Jong-seo', the third next-generation Aegis destroyer, bringing the Republic of Korea Navy closer to completing its Aegis destroyer capabilities. This achievement comes 50 years after the development of the country's first domestically produced combat ship, the 'Ulsan'.
On September 30, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries held a launch ceremony for the 8,200-ton next-generation Aegis destroyer, Daehokim Jong-seo.
Attending the event were President Lee Jae-myung, First Lady Kim Hye-kyung, Minister of National Defense Kang Shin-cheol, Chief of Naval Operations Kim Kyung-ryul, Defense Acquisition Program Administration Commissioner Lee Yong-cheol, HD Hyundai Chairman Chung Ki-sun, and Vice Chairman Lee Sang-kyun, along with around 350 officials from the government, military, and industry.
The Daehokim Jong-seo is named after General Kim Jong-seo, who led northern expansion during the early Joseon Dynasty. After sea trials, it is expected to be delivered to the Navy in December next year.
This Aegis destroyer, part of the Jeongjo Daewang class, measures 170 meters in length and 21 meters in width, with a displacement of approximately 8,200 tons. It can navigate at speeds of up to 30 knots and is equipped with an advanced integrated sonar system and ballistic missile system developed with domestic technology. Unlike the existing Sejong the Great class Aegis destroyers, it can also perform interception missions, making it a key asset in the maritime-based three-axis defense system.
The completion of the Aegis destroyer capabilities for the Navy is particularly significant. Once operational next year, the Navy will possess a total of six Aegis destroyers, including three Sejong the Great class and three Jeongjo Daewang class vessels.
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries previously designed and built the first Sejong the Great class destroyer, 'Sejong the Great', in 2008, and the third ship, 'Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong', in 2012. With the construction of the first and second Jeongjo Daewang class destroyers, 'Jeongjo Daewang' and 'Dasan Jeong Yak-yong', along with the Daehokim Jong-seo, the company has built five of the six Aegis destroyers operated by the Navy, demonstrating its advanced shipbuilding capabilities.
President Lee Jae-myung stated, "The shipbuilding industry, boasting world-class technology, is our pride and the driving force behind making Korea a maritime power. We will actively support our shipbuilding industry to maintain its competitive edge and reach new heights."
Chairman Chung Ki-sun emphasized, "This year marks the 50th anniversary of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries' development of the first domestically produced combat ship, 'Ulsan', making this launch ceremony even more meaningful. We will uphold our mission to build ships that protect the world's seas and steadfastly safeguard Korea's economy and security."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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