Arms agency launches project to upgrade 1,800-ton submarines
Blueprint for the envisioned upgrade of 1,800-ton KSS-II submarines / Courtesy of Defense Acquisition Program Administration
The state arms procurement agency has launched a 468.9 billion-won ($319.5 million) project to upgrade the aging combat and sonar systems of the 1,800-ton KSS-II submarines to step up its operational capabilities, officials said Thursday.
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) held a meeting marking the launch of the development project at the headquarters of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, South Gyeongsang Province.
Under the plan, the agency aims to replace the combat systems and towed array sonars of three KSS-II submarines with the latest equipment by 2033. They will also be newly equipped with mine avoidance sonars and buoyant wire antennas, according to DAPA.
The planned upgrade is expected to significantly enhance the submarines' operational capabilities, including their detection, navigation and attack skills, and help demonstrate the optimal combat system developed through homegrown technology, DAPA said.