The South Korean Navy launched its new 3,600-ton submarine, the 'Seohee,' on November 3, enhancing its underwater strike capabilities and long-duration submersion abilities. The submarine features an increased number of missile launch tubes and incorporates domestic lithium batteries, improving both its armament capacity and operational endurance.
The launch ceremony took place at Hanwha Ocean's Okpo shipyard in Geoje, attended by over 200 officials, including National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo. The Seohee is the second submarine in the Jang Yeong-sil class, following the launch of the first vessel, the Jang Yeong-sil, in October of last year. After undergoing sea trials, the Seohee is expected to be delivered to the Navy in 2028 and will subsequently enter operational service.
The Seohee is an upgraded version of the 3,000-ton Dosan Ahn Chang-ho class submarine. It measures approximately 89 meters in length, about 6 meters longer than its predecessor, allowing for more space to accommodate various weapons and equipment.
A key enhancement is its underwater strike capability. The number of vertical launch system tubes for submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) has increased from 6 to 10, allowing for a greater number of missiles to be carried and expanding the scope of underwater strike missions.
The submarine's ability to detect and respond to targets has also improved. The combat system, which acts as the submarine's brain, and the sonar system, which serves as its eyes and ears underwater, have been upgraded to enhance the ability to identify and accurately strike multiple targets at long ranges. This improvement comes alongside an increase in armament capacity and enhanced detection and information processing capabilities.
To enable longer underwater operations, the propulsion and power systems have been reinforced. The Seohee combines an air-independent propulsion (AIP) system with domestic lithium-ion batteries. The AIP system generates power underwater without needing to surface for air, while the lithium batteries extend the duration of submerged operations and the time the submarine can travel at maximum speed.
This design reduces the need to surface for air supply, enhancing the submarine's ability to maneuver quickly when necessary while maintaining stealth. The goal is to increase the operational time in mission areas while preserving the submarine's core stealth capabilities.
Noise reduction technology and emergency maneuvering systems have also been integrated. The latest noise reduction technology minimizes the likelihood of detection by adversaries, and auxiliary propulsion systems ensure the submarine can remain operational even if the main propulsion system fails.
The scope of domestic equipment has also expanded. Compared to the Dosan Ahn Chang-ho class, 12 additional types of equipment, including the lithium battery system, have been domestically produced, bringing the total to 70 domestically manufactured items. The Navy and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration expect this will enhance the stability of maintenance and parts supply, as well as improve the submarine's competitiveness for future exports.
The submarine is named after Seohee, a historical figure known for securing the Gangdong Six Provinces through diplomatic negotiations during the Goryeo Dynasty's conflict with the Khitan. The Navy stated that Seohee's military and diplomatic achievements, along with her spirit of overcoming national crises, align with the submarine's role as a key asset in maritime defense.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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