In a significant advancement for the Republic of Korea Navy, South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) has successfully floated out the second King Jeongjo-class destroyer, designated as Dasan Jeong Yak-yong (DDG-996). This state-of-the-art vessel is named after a prominent philosopher and scientist from the Joseon Dynasty, further emphasizing South Korea’s commitment to honoring its historical figures through modern military assets.
The launch of the Dasan Jeong Yak-yong follows three years after the debut of the lead ship, King Jeongjo the Great, which was introduced in July 2022. Following its launch, the new destroyer will enter a rigorous phase of sea trials and final outfitting, with plans for delivery to the navy’s Fleet Command projected by late 2026. The South Korean naval forces expect to receive a total of three King Jeongjo-class destroyers, having welcomed the first vessel in November 2024 and looking forward to the third addition by 2027.
The King Jeongjo-class vessels are designed to enhance South Korea’s missile defense capabilities significantly. These modern destroyers build upon the technological advancements seen in the earlier Sejong the Great-class ships, incorporating refined stealth technology and improved systems for detecting and tracking missile threats.
Each destroyer measures 170 meters (557 feet) in length and 21 meters (68 feet) in width, capable of accommodating a crew of up to 300 personnel. The vessels are powered by four gas turbines and two hybrid electric drive units, allowing them to reach speeds of up to 30 knots (55 kilometers/35 miles per hour) while ensuring better fuel efficiency and a reduced acoustic signature.
Equipped with the Aegis combat management system along with an integrated sonar system, the Dasan Jeong Yak-yong is heavily armed with advanced weaponry. It features SM-3 and SM-6 missiles, which are essential for multi-tier missile defense—intercepting threats at altitudes up to 500 kilometers (310 miles) and targeting those in the terminal phase at lower altitudes, respectively. Additionally, the destroyer is armed with long- and short-range anti-submarine torpedoes and has the capability to launch an MH-60R Seahawk maritime helicopter.
These capabilities position the King Jeongjo-class destroyers as pivotal components in South Korea’s “three-axis” defense strategy, specifically developed to address and counter persistent missile threats from North Korea. As the country continues to modernize its naval forces, the deployment of these advanced warships is expected to bolster regional security and enhance South Korea’s defensive posture in a volatile geopolitical climate.
