Discover Korean Jang Bogo III KSS III Batch II submarine design by Hanwha Ocean.

Hanwha Ocean showcased the Jang Bogo III (KSS-III) Batch II submarine at the prestigious ADEX 2023 exhibition, taking place from 17 to 22 October at the Seoul Air Force Base. This submarine is revolutionary because it is equipped with Lithium Ion Batteries, the AIP system, and is capable of firing SLBMs.
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Jangbogo III Batch II submarine at ADEX 2023 in Seoul, South Korea. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

The Jangbogo-III Batch-II, developed by Hanwha Ocean's technology, represents a leap in South Korean naval capabilities. The project commenced in March 2023, with an expected delivery to the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy by 2026. This state-of-the-art submarine has set a benchmark in diesel submarine technology, making it one of the world's foremost in underwater navigation.

The submarine has a significant weight of 3,600 tons, with a length of about 90 meters. This increased length, in part, accommodates the vertical launch system (VLS), which has been expanded from the earlier Jangbogo-I.

The Batch-II has even larger launch tubes, specifically designed to deploy submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBM). The adjustment in the size of these tubes was made to accommodate the missile systems of different navies, showcasing its adaptability.

Internally, the Jangbogo-III Batch-II can house a 50-member crew. The layout is specifically designed with two decks, a departure from the single deck design of the Jangbogo-I and II.

This enhanced structure ensures that the living quarters and other facilities, such as the CCC (an armed control area), are efficiently organized. Of note, the Jangbogo-III Batch-II will also see female crew members serving onboard for the first time, with dedicated living spaces, separate rooms, and bathrooms designed to cater to their needs. There are three bathrooms in total, one each for female crew, male crew, and the captain.

Powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system and air-independent propulsion (AIP), the Jangbogo-III Batch-II boasts a significant range. The AIP system, which breaks down water to produce hydrogen and oxygen, allows the submarine to operate underwater without needing to surface for oxygen, greatly increasing its stealth and operational capabilities. This submarine can remain submerged for over 20 days, a world record in continuous operation for diesel submarines.

While nuclear submarines have the advantage of prolonged operations due to their fuel type, diesel submarines like those of South Korea, require snorkeling to intake oxygen.

The Jangbogo-III Batch-II's AIP system circumvents this limitation by self-generating oxygen while underwater, a feat that only a few entities globally can achieve. Hanwha Ocean's ability to develop such technology underscores South Korea's prowess in naval technology.

Hanwha Ocean eyes beyond the domestic horizon with the Jangbogo-III Batch-II, actively marketing it to international navies, notably the Canadian Navy. Known as a leading candidate for the Canadian submarine replacement project, the Jangbogo-III Batch-II is challenging the Canadian submarine replacement project with a competitive edge.

Contracts for two vessels are already secured, with bids for a third in progress, potentially positioning Hanwha Ocean as the exclusive producer for this state-of-the-art submarine model.

The Jangbogo-I weighed approximately 1,260 tons, followed by the Jangbogo-II at 1,800 tons, and the Jangbogo-III Batch-I is around 3,000 tons, indicating a progression in South Korea's naval development.