South Korea delivers latest 3,600-ton frigate 'Gyeongbuk' to Navy

South Korea's naval capabilities have been bolstered with the handover of the new 3,600-ton class frigate, the 'Gyeongbuk,' to the Navy. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced the frigate's delivery on June 19, marking a significant achievement for the nation's defense industry.

The Gyeongbuk, the second vessel in the Ulsan-class Batch-III series, represents a concentration of South Korea's indigenous defense technology. Its combat system, advanced phased-array radar, and various weapon systems have all been developed domestically. This integration of local technology highlights the country's growing prowess in naval shipbuilding and defense.

“

The timely delivery of the Gyeongbuk frigate is meaningful in further solidifying our maritime security amid rapidly changing international affairs.

Following a successful sea trial period of about a year after its launch in June 2025, the Gyeongbuk frigate is set to undergo approximately six months of operational training. Upon completion, it will be deployed to a fleet command, where it will serve as a key component in surveillance, defense missions, and securing maritime interests.

Choi Sang-deok, head of DAPA's Ship Project Management Office, emphasized the frigate's timely delivery as crucial for strengthening maritime security amidst a rapidly changing global landscape. He also noted the achievement as a testament to the excellent capabilities of K-defense and the successful challenge undertaken by a mid-sized domestic shipyard in building its first warship.

“

This is a valuable achievement where a domestic mid-sized shipyard successfully completed the difficult challenge of building its first warship, once again proving the excellent technology of K-shipbuilding.