HJSC Scoops £70m Deal To Upgrade ROK Patrol Ships

South Korean shipbuilder HJ Shipbuilding & Construction (HJSC) has bagged a multi-million-pound deal to upgrade the Republic of Korea's 18 high-speed patrol vessels.

The contract from the ROK's  Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) to enhance the capabilities of the Patrol Killer Guided-missile (PKG) vessels is worth KRW 124.7 billion, or approximately £68.8 million, according to a recent press statement issued by the firm.

The 440-ton guided-missile fast attack craft were developed by the ROK Navy to play a key role as the forward force of its fleet. HJSC built eight of the 18-strong fleet, including the Yoon Yeong-ha, the first PKG of its eponymous class, in 2008.

Capable of anti-ship, anti-air, and electronic warfare missions, the domestically developed combat systems, hull fire barriers, stealth tech, and water-jet propulsion featured on the PKGs made them significantly more powerful, maneuverable, and survivable than the Chamsuri-class boats they replaced.

The refit process will stretch into the next decade and will entail upgrades to the vessels' combat systems and other equipment. HJSC also secured the performance upgrade project for the ROK Navy’s first large transport ship, the Dokdo, in 2022.

An HJSC spokesman commented: “Through this fast attack craft upgrade project, which will run through 2030, as well as our expansion into the overseas MRO market — considered a key future growth area — we aim to further enhance our competitiveness in the maritime defense industry.”

• You can read more details on the HJSC website