Exclusive MSPO 2025: Korean Hanwha and Polish Famor sign strategic MOU for Orka submarine local production.

Army Recognition, during MSPO 2025, assisted to the signature of a MOU between Hanwha Ocean of South Korea and Polish defense manufacturer FAMOR, aimed to reinforce industrial cooperation in support of Poland's Orka submarine acquisition program. The signing took place at Hanwha’s booth in Kielce where the South Korean shipbuilder showcased its latest KSS-III Batch-II diesel-electric attack submarine model, a contender to become the backbone of Poland’s future underwater fleet.
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Hanwha Ocean’s KSS-III Batch-II submarine offers long-range strike capability with 10 VLS cells, over three weeks of submerged endurance using AIP and lithium-ion batteries, and advanced sonar and combat systems optimized for both deep-sea and littoral operations (Picture source: Army Recognition Group).

The MOU aims to establish a framework for collaboration in integrating FAMOR’s marine systems including control consoles, lighting systems, and electronic components into the KSS-III platform. As part of Hanwha Ocean’s localization strategy, the agreement ensures a substantial share of industrial participation for Poland’s defense sector. If the KSS-III is selected under the Orka program, the deal will facilitate knowledge transfer, local manufacturing, training, and maintenance support, establishing long-term defense sovereignty for Poland and deepening bilateral defense-industrial ties.

The KSS-III Batch-II submarine is one of the most advanced non-nuclear submarines in the world. It measures approximately 89 meters in length and displaces around 3,600 tons submerged, making it significantly larger and more capable than many European competitors. Its propulsion system features a hybrid configuration combining diesel engines, Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) based on fuel cell technology, and cutting-edge lithium-ion batteries. This tri-energy setup grants the KSS-III over three weeks of submerged endurance without surfacing or snorkeling, offering exceptional stealth and operational persistence in contested waters like the Baltic Sea. It also includes 10 vertical launch system (VLS) cells capable of deploying cruise missiles, ballistic missiles (SLBM), or other long-range precision weapons, capabilities that set it apart from most NATO diesel-electric submarines.

The KSS-III represents a dramatic leap in undersea warfare capability. Its advanced combat management system, conformal array sonar, flank arrays, and low-noise hull design allow it to operate effectively in shallow, congested littoral zones such as the Baltic while also conducting deep-water strategic deterrence missions. The submarine can simultaneously track multiple targets, deliver salvo fire from four different weapon types, and deploy wire-guided torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, or mines. With real-time data integration and a federated fire control system, the KSS-III is built for both hunter-killer roles and land-attack missions. Its endurance and firepower enable it to deny enemy naval access, protect maritime supply routes, and support special operations deep behind adversary lines.

This partnership signals a major shift in the strategic alignment between South Korea and Poland. For Seoul, securing a deal under the Orka program would not only extend its successful defense exports to the naval domain following earlier landmark agreements on K2 tanks, K9 howitzers, and Chunmoo MLRS but also position South Korea as a reliable defense partner for NATO states beyond the Indo-Pacific. For Warsaw, acquiring the KSS-III would dramatically modernize its aging undersea fleet and grant it a true strategic deterrent capability in the Baltic theater. It also reflects Poland’s broader ambition to establish industrial autonomy in critical defense sectors. By anchoring South Korean technology in Polish industry, this MOU advances a shared vision of sovereignty, interoperability, and long-term military cooperation that could influence regional naval balances for decades to come.