At MADEX 2025, LIG Nex1 unveiled three new models of Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) — the Sea Sword-X, Recon USV, and Suicide USV — developed under the Republic of Korea Navy’s “Navy Sea GHOST” initiative. These unveilings represent a significant milestone for LIG Nex1, building on more than a decade of experience in the design, construction, and testing of various USV platforms.
Sea Sword-X
The Sea Sword-X stands out as a flagship concept model of combat USV that integrates LIG Nex1’s expertise in both unmanned maritime systems and guided weaponry. It incorporates a range of advanced armaments including, first domestically developed 20mm RCWS, the 2.75-inch Poniard guided rocket (K-LOGIR), which recently passed the U.S. Department of Defense’s Foreign Comparative Testing (FCT) program with successful results, an improved version of the Blue Shark lightweight anti-submarine torpedo, currently under development by LIG Nex1, canister launched loitering munition and 130mm guided rocket.
The Sea Sword-X features a stealth hull design to minimize detection and is equipped with a multi-function radar (MFR) for enhanced target detection and tracking capabilities. Its modular, standardized platform allows for the rapid swapping of mission-specific payloads, enabling flexible deployment across various operational environments, including anti-surface warfare (ASuW), anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and counter-drone operations. The ASW module consists of a sonobuoy system and a towed array sonar. For counter-drone operations, two module options are available: a high-power microwave (HPM) module that electronically disables drones, and a missile-and-laser module that physically neutralizes airborne threats.
Regarding command and control, the vessel ensures stable and effective communication via LEO Satellite Antenna and tethered communication drones. Other sensors and systems include, EW/RF Antenna, EO/IR, CCD Camera, navigational radar and decoy launcher.
Suicide USV
A model of the Suicide USV was also showcased. Drawing insights from the war in Ukraine, LIG Nex1’s Suicide USV is designed not only for self-destruct attack missions, but also to conduct guided missile strikes using the company’s 2.75-inch K-LOGIR and limited anti-air engagements with Chiron missiles prior to impact. To reduce production costs and enable rapid manufacturing, the vessel is built using 3D printing technology. For effective mission execution, the Suicide USV is equipped with LEO satellite antennas, a satellite navigation system, EO/IR sensors, and a 360-degree CCD camera to support targeting, navigation, and communication.
Lastly, the design of the Reconnaissance USV, part of an active contract signed with the ROK Navy was also revealed. Building on LIG Nex1’s prior development of the Sea Sword-II Recon USV, the new model features a significantly more advanced hull design along with upgraded sensors and communication systems. It is armed with a Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) and integrates multiple systems, including weapon control, obstacle detection, satellite navigation, vessel control, and autonomous navigation. Its sensor and communication suite includes EO/IR, a wave sensor, towed array sonar, and military satellite communication capabilities.
