Naval News

By Eunhyuk Cha

24 January 2025

Source: https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2025/01/south-korea-kicks-off-ffx-batch-iv-frigate-program/

Rendering of the FFX Batch-IV frigate (Hanwha Ocean Photo)

South Korea's DAPA has launched the Ulsan-class Batch-IV frigate program, the final phase of the next-generation frigate (FFX) initiative, featuring upgraded systems for enhanced efficiency and performance.

DAPA Press Release – Translation by Naval News

On Wednesday, the 22nd, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) held a collective kickoff meeting for the Ulsan-class Frigate (FFX) Batch-IV project at Hanwha Ocean in Geoje, South Gyeongsang Province.

The meeting was presided over by the Head of the Naval Ship Program Department at DAPA (RDML Hyun-seung Shin) and attended by representatives from the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), Defense Agency for Technology and Quality (DTaQ), the Navy, Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Systems and LIG Nex1.

The FFX Batch-IV project marks the final phase of the next-generation frigate initiative, which began in 2006 to replace aging frigates and patrol vessels. This kickoff meeting holds symbolic significance as it opens the last chapter of the entire project. 

During the meeting, DAPA and the participating organizations discussed major matters such as the project timeline for shipbuilding and integrated equipment systems development, as well as interagency coordination, while establishing a close collaboration system among all stakeholders.

The Ulsan-class Batch-IV project has progressed since its basic project plan was deliberated and approved at the 138th Defense Project Promotion Committee meeting in August 2021. 

Contracts were signed in December 2024 with Hanwha Ocean (for the construction of the first and second ships), Hanwha Systems (for developing Engineering Control System (ECS) and combat system) LIG Nex1 (for developing weapon control systems). 

The ships built under this project will feature enhanced operational capabilities compared to the Ulsan-class Batch-III frigates.

Key advancements include the incorporation of feedback from sea trials and operational experiences with earlier frigates, as well as the application of cutting-edge technologies to maximize operational performance. 

The frigates will also be equipped with the upgraded Shipboard Electronic Warfare Equipment-II, which boasts more than double the detection range of its predecessor. Additionally, a newly developed weapon control system capable of integrating four types of guided weapons (anti-ship missile, surface-to-land missile, surface-to-air missile, and long-range anti-submarine torpedo) and an Engineering Control System (ECS) will significantly enhance operational efficiency and maintenance convenience.

Notably, the localization of the ECS will facilitate seamless integration with additional equipment and ensure ease of maintenance and upgrades. This localization is also expected to drive advancements among related defense contractors and component manufacturers.

“Through the Ulsan-class Batch-IV project, we will strive to deliver cutting-edge frigates on schedule to strengthen the Navy’s capabilities. Moreover, by demonstrating the excellence of Korea’s domestic shipbuilding technology to the global market, we aim to contribute to future Korean defense exports.”

Head of the Naval Ship Program Department at DAPA, RDML Hyun-seung Shin

DAPA plans to complete the construction of the first and second ships of the Ulsan-class Batch-IV by 2028 and 2029, respectively. These will be followed by sea trials, with delivery to the Navy scheduled for 2029 and 2030.

Naval News Comment

As previously reported by Naval News, the FFX Batch-IV will largely resemble the Batch-III in design and capabilities but will be more efficient due to its upgraded integrated weapon control system. 

This system is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency and maintenance convenience by integrating the vessel’s four major weapon systems: the C-Star anti-ship missile, Sea Dragon cruise missile, K-SAAM short-range surface-to-air missile, and Red Shark K-ASROC. 

Furthermore, the Engineering Control System (ECS) being developed by Hanwha Systems will incorporate network-based integrated control and monitoring of the naval vessel’s propulsion, power, damage control, and auxiliary systems.

Engineering Control System (ECS) (Hanwha Systems Photo)

Additionally, the Batch-IV will feature successor equipment to the currently used SLQ-200K Sonata electronic warfare system, expected to enhance the vessel’s detection, electronic warfare capabilities, and survivability in future operational environments.

Lastly, with the successful construction and commissioning of the FFX Batch-IV, the Republic of Korea Navy will complete the FFX program, which replaces the aging or decommissioned Pohang-class PCC, Ulsan-class FF, and Gwanggaeto the Great-class DDH that once safeguarded South Korea’s waters. 

Among these, the Batch-IV is expected to take on the role previously fulfilled by the Gwanggaeto the Great-class / KDX-I destroyers.