Uruguay's new fast attack craft Huracan begins voyage home from South Korea.

According to information published by SA Defensa on August 26, 2024, the future Uruguayan Navy Chamsuri-class fast attack craft, Huracán, has begun its journey to Montevideo, Uruguay, after being loaded onto a heavy lift transport vessel. This development represents an important step in incorporating the vessel into Uruguay's naval operations after South Korea's donation in 2022.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Chamsuri-class fast attack craft Huracan in Masan, South Korea. (Picture source: Uruguayan Navy)

The Chamsuri-class patrol boats, developed by Korea Tacoma Marine Industries, have played a significant role in the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) since their introduction in the 1970s.

Designed to undertake a variety of naval tasks, these vessels were built to conduct coastal patrols, monitor exclusive economic zones, counter smuggling operations, and engage in rapid strikes against hostile forces. With a robust design, they are built to endure ramming and other impacts during close-quarter engagements.

Measuring about 37 meters in length, with a beam of 6.9 meters and a draught of 2 meters, they displace around 148 tons. Equipped with a Combined Diesel and Gas (CODAG) propulsion system, they are powered by two MTU MD 16V 538 TB90 diesel engines, providing a propulsion output of 6,000 horsepower. This configuration allows the boats to reach speeds of up to 37 knots and offers a range of approximately 600 nautical miles when cruising at 20 knots.

Standard configurations often include a mix of 20mm and 30mm automatic cannons, a 40mm Bofors gun, and .50 caliber machine guns. More recent models have incorporated automated fire control systems to replace older optical aiming devices, enhancing accuracy and response times in combat situations. The boats are also equipped with a KDAGAIE Mk2 anti-missile decoy system, which launches electromagnetic or infrared decoys to confuse incoming missiles and provide protection against guided missile threats.

In addition to their weaponry, these patrol boats are equipped with advanced sensors and radar systems. These include the STX RadarSys SPS-100k surface search radar and the Saab CEROS fire radar and optronic tracking system.

The Chamsuri-class has been built in two main variants, the PKM 201 and PKM 301 series, with some differences in armament layout and superstructure design.

These boats have been widely used not only by the ROKN but have also been transferred to other navies, including those of Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, and the Philippines. Each recipient nation has adapted the Chamsuri-class to its specific operational needs, often renaming them according to local naval traditions.