Korea to develop indigenous sea mine-detection, removal systems for minesweepers

This photo shows an image of variable depth sonar, core equipment to be topped on a homegrown minesweeper under development. Courtesy of the Defense Acquisition Program Administration

The defense acquisition agency on Tuesday signed a deal with LIG Nex1 to develop indigenous underwater mine-detection and removal systems to be fitted on Navy minesweepers currently under development.

The deal, worth 171.8 billion won ($122.4 million), aims to localize two key sea mine combat systems, the variable depth sonar (VDS) and the combined influence mine sweeping system (CIS), the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) said.

Korea has long relied on foreign technology for that equipment.

The VDS helps detect sea mines even in complex seafloor topography by sending sound waves from a warship, enabling the early detection of mines concealed at sea.

The CIS can imitate the signs of a warship, such as its sound or water pressure change, to trick the sea mine into detonating in advance, according to the DAPA.

Once the systems are developed and fitted on minesweepers, they will enable the Navy to possess fully homegrown sea mine combat capabilities for searching, detecting, and removing them, according to officials.

"By localizing two core mine countermeasure systems, we will resolve the supply issues of securing technology and parts from overseas sources, while enhancing operational reliability through optimized integration of ships and equipment," a DAPA official said.