The ROK Navy has received its first PKX-B Batch-II fast patrol craft, featuring enhanced combat-system integration, anti-jamming capability and improved operability.
DAPA press release translated by Naval News
South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) held a delivery ceremony for the first PKX-B Batch-II fast patrol craft (PKMR) at HJ Shipbuilding & Construction’s Yeongdo Shipyard in Busan on August 14. The vessel is intended to protect the Northern Limit Line (NLL), South Korea’s frontline maritime area.
The PKX-B program, also known as the next-generation fast patrol craft program, is intended to replace the aging Chamsuri-class patrol killer medium (PKM) craft. DAPA successfully completed the PKX-B Batch-I program between 2017 and 2022 and launched the Batch-II program in 2022. Following its launch and sea trials in 2025, the first Batch-II vessel was delivered to the ROK Navy on August 14.
The Batch-II vessels feature improvements in their combat systems and user operability compared with Batch-I. In particular, the control and firing functions of the 130 mm guided rocket system and 12.7 mm remote-controlled weapon system have been integrated into the combat system, while enhanced anti-jamming capability has improved the vessels’ ability to respond to electronic warfare threats.
The first PKX-B Batch-II vessel is equipped with overwhelming on-scene response capabilities that will deter the enemy from attempting provocations. Based on proven domestic technologies, we will complete the construction and delivery of the follow-on vessels without disruption and establish a robust coastal defense posture in the frontline waters of the Northern Limit Line.
Choi Sang-deok, head of DAPA’s Naval Ship Program Department
The first PKX-B Batch-II vessel delivered on August 14 will undergo the ROK Navy’s operational deployment process before being assigned to the Northern Limit Line area to carry out territorial waters protection missions. DAPA also plans to sequentially deliver three follow-on vessels to the ROK Navy by the end of this year.
Naval News Comments
In addition to the combat-system integration and enhanced anti-jamming capability highlighted by DAPA, PKX-B Batch-II incorporates a number of smaller improvements based on operational experience with the Batch-I vessels.
The heater output of the electro-optical tracking system (EOTS) has been increased from 200 W to 600 W, addressing cases in which snow, ice or seawater freezing on the sensor could affect its availability during winter and maritime operations. The search radar has also been modified to allow finer adjustment of frequency spacing, reducing interference between onboard systems and improving radar performance.
Other changes address crew operability and survivability. The helm station has been raised to provide helmsman with a better forward view while seated. A fire damper has also been added to the ventilation duct of the 76 mm gun ammunition magazine to prevent flames from spreading into the magazine through the ventilation system in the event of a nearby fire.
Several comparable equipment improvements, particularly involving the search radar and EOTS, have also been pursued as part of the ROK Navy’s modernization of the larger Yoon Young-ha-class (PKX-A/PKG) fast attack craft.
