HD Hyundai Heavy Industries launches third next-generation Aegis destroyer for ROK Navy

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries on Wednesday launched the 8,200-ton Daeho Kim Jong-seo, the third next-generation Aegis destroyer (KDX-III Batch-II) for the Republic of Korea Navy, at its Ulsan shipyard.

Earlier in the day, the unveiling ceremony brought together approximately 350 government, military and company officials at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Ulsan shipyard.

Key figures included President Lee Jae Myung, first lady Kim Hea Kyung, Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul, Chief of Naval Operations Kim Kyung-ryul, Defense Acquisition Program Administration Minister Lee Yong-cheol and HD Hyundai Chairman Chung Ki-sun.

With the delivery set for December 2027, the launch completes the Navy’s planned fleet of six Aegis destroyers, following the delivery of three Sejong the Great-class ships and three Jeongjo the Great-class vessels.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries designed and constructed five of the Navy’s six Aegis ships, including the Sejong the Great in 2008 and Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong in 2012, and all three Jeongjo the Great-class destroyers since 2024.

“Notably, building all three next-generation Jeongjo the Great-class Aegis destroyers further underscored the shipbuilder’s advanced naval shipbuilding capabilities,” the company stated.

Named after General Kim Jong-seo, an early Joseon-era military figure renowned for expanding Korea’s northern border, the 170-meter-long vessel features a 21-meter beam, a displacement of 8,200 tons and a maximum speed of 30 knots.

Equipped with a domestically developed integrated sonar system and advanced ballistic missile defense capabilities, the ship has intercept capabilities absent in the previous generation — Sejong the Great-class — positioning it as a key pillar of Korea’s sea-based mobile three-axis defense strategy.

“This launch is especially meaningful as this year marks 50 years since the company initiated the development of the Ulsan, Korea’s first domestic frigate,” stated Chairman Chung. “We remain dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s economy and national security by building advanced naval vessels.”

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