Hanwha Ocean press release
The agreement, signed on the 23rd, establishes a Steering Committee aimed at securing submarine acquisition programs, particularly in Poland and Canada, signifying a robust partnership between the two defense giants.
The event saw key figures like Sung Kyun Jeong, Vice President of Hanwha Ocean’s Naval Ship International Business, Sir Nick Hine, Babcock Managing Director of AUKUS & International, Ewa Kittel-Prejs, Babcock Country Director for Poland, Sun-Mi Yoon, Babcock Country Director for Korea and Anthony March, Vice President of Marine and Mission Systems of Babcock Canada in attendance.
Previously, in mid-January, Babcock International’s Nick Hine visited South Korea and took a close look at Hanwha Ocean’s submarine R&D, design, and construction capabilities and expressed his intention to actively cooperate. In particular, he announced that he would be in the installation of Babcock’s weapons systems in overseas export markets such as Poland and Canada and in ISS (In-Service Support) business cooperation with Hanwha Ocean.
Before the signing ceremony, on the 20th and 21st, engineers from Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Systems, and Babcock International met in Warsaw to discuss technical cooperation related to Poland’s ORKA project. On the 22nd, they visited the PGZ Naval Shipyard in Gdynia to oversee local facilities and discussed the cooperation regarding the Polish ORKA project.
Sung Kyun Jeong of Hanwha Ocean expressed confidence in the partnership, stating, “This agreement with Babcock International Group not only recognizes Hanwha Ocean’s technological edge but also strengthens our position in competing for international submarine projects.”
Sung Kyun Jeong, Vice President of Hanwha Ocean’s Naval Ship International Business
Sir Nick Hine of Babcock, also stated that “We are excited to be working with Hanwha on this and other specific opportunities to further our joint ability to deliver exceptional products and support in the most timely manner – something that is critical in the current strategic context.”
About KSS-III for Poland
KSS-III, the Republic of Korea Navy’s most recent submarine, is about a displacement of 3,600 tons.
At the heart of KSS-III’s technological excellence is its innovative propulsion system, which includes an advanced Lithium-ion battery and Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system. This combination allows the submarine to redefine the possibilities of submerged operations, setting a new standard for conventional submarines. In fact, KSS-III stands out by achieving the world’s longest submerged operations period over three weeks, demonstrating its endurance and operational efficiency.
The submarine’s lethal firepower adds another layer to its capabilities, as it can launch a diverse array of weapons. From submarine-launched land attack missiles, to torpedoes, and mobile mines, KSS-III ensures a formidable combat capability.
Beyond its combat capabilities, KSS-III has optimized hull designs and anti-acoustic coating to minimize noise emissions, providing a stealthy and agile presence underwater. Its advanced combat management systems and SONARs further contribute to its technological superiority, ensuring full interoperability with allied forces. These features solidify the KSS-III’s position as a technological leader in naval defense. Its enhanced automation systems, allow the operation with only 33 crew and thus provide improved habitability.
Since its deployment with the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) in 2021, KSS-III has demonstrated its real-world capabilities, enhancing its credibility and reliability. Notably, nations such as Poland, Canada, and countries in the Middle East have expressed interest in this cutting-edge platform, underlining its potential contribution to global security.
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