A front-view rendering of the KDDX next-generation destroyer. Photo courtesy of Hanwha Ocean
July 31 (Asia Today) -- South Korea's arms procurement agency signed a contract with Hanwha Ocean on Friday for the detailed design and construction of the first KDDX next-generation destroyer.
The agreement moves the long-delayed naval program into its full design and construction stage after nearly three years of disputes over the selection of a shipbuilder.
The lead ship is scheduled to be delivered to the South Korean Navy by the end of 2032.
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration said KDDX will be South Korea's first large destroyer built with a domestically developed hull, combat management system, multifunction radar and other core weapons systems.
