The project, which aims to produce an all-unmanned AUV that can perform long-distance autonomous missions, is expected to cost 25 billion Korean won or 19 million USD.
This project is a significant cornerstone for the Repulic of Korea (ROK) Navy as it plans on building MRXUUV (Mission Reconfigurable eXtra-large Unmanned Underwater Vehicle) systems that can carry out underwater operations autonomously. This new AUV became the center of focus as it can perform various missions such as long-range reconnaissance missions and mine installation with a low risk of being detected early by foes or losing the crews, as its operation is strictly unmanned.
Hanwha Systems will build a long-range XLUUV prototype by August 2027. It will design and integrate unmanned submarine platforms that can be transformed according to the mission, develop mission control equipment that is capable of autonomously controlling AUV, and build a prototype ultra-large AUV with integrated mast that is specialized for harsh underwater operating conditions, the company added.
South Korea’s move to develop an ultra-large AUV was rather expected, as its neighboring North has revealed and tested a nuclear attack drone called ‘Haeil’ (Eng.: Tsunami) earlier this year. With the development of an ultra-large AUV platform for the ROK Navy, this technology is expected to lead to the development of Korea’s long-range XLUUV for reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare.
Hanwha Systems described the project as a fine example of teaming up with its shipbuilding sibling Hanwha Ocean to show synergy among Hanwha’s defense affiliates. Hanwha Ocean owns an unmanned submarine-specific infrastructure that allows one-stop integration, inspection, and testing of AUV, and dedicated waters for AUV operations so that it can be tested at any time without restrictions on maritime traffic control systems. Hanwha Systems plans to use these facilities to test and verify the prototype of the ultra-large AUV.
Do-Hyun Park, the head of Hanwha Systems Command and Control Business Division said:
“AUV is a vital part of modern sea warfare, and many countries including US and China are committed to building AUVs, regardless of their respective sizes.”
“Hanwha Systems will secure its place in AUV development by upgrading core technologies for AUV and actively contributing to secure the future power for our navy to respond to potential security threats.”
