Navy launches new frigate Gwangju, 6th in next-generation fleet project

The Navy said Tuesday it has launched a new guided missile frigate named Gwangju as it continues to churn out next-generation warships to retire older vessels.

The new frigate is the sixth addition to the fleet as part of the Navy's project to build 20 next-generation vessels by 2020.

The new series will replace the Navy's aging frigates and patrol combat corvettes, the Navy said in a statement.

Once deployed, it will be tasked with patrolling and defending South Korea's sea territory and contribute as deterrence against North Korea's aggression, the statement said.

The 2,300-ton new frigate is fit to accommodate about 120 crewmen and able to sail at a maximum speed of 30 knots or 55.5 kilometers per hour.

The vessel is equipped with three-dimension scanning radar, a sonar torpedo detecting system as well as antiaircraft and antiship missiles to be able to engage in antiaircraft, antisubmarine and antiship operations.

The frigate Gwangju will undergo test navigation and examinations before being handed over to the Navy for deployment by the end of 2016. (Yonhap)