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HD Hyundai Heavy Industries launches second Aegis Destroyer "Dasan Jeong Yak-yon" which will be delivered to Navy by End-2026
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries launches Latest Aegis Destroyer “Dasan Jeong Yak-yong”
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has launched its newest Aegis destroyer, the Dasan Jeong Yak-yong (DDG-996), marking a major milestone in the nation’s naval modernization program. The vessel, the second in the 8,200-ton Jeongjo-daewang class, was launched on September 17, 2025, at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Ulsan shipyard. Delivery to the Republic of Korea Navy is scheduled for late 2026 following sea trials and final outfitting.
The Jeongjo-daewang class is designed as a core asset of Korea’s “three-axes” defense system, with a primary role in countering North Korean ballistic missile threats. The Dasan Jeong Yak-yong is armed with both SM-3 and SM-6 interceptors, enabling it to engage hostile missiles at various stages of flight. The SM-3 will allow midcourse interception at altitudes up to 500 kilometers, while the SM-6 will cover the terminal phase at lower altitudes.
Measuring about 170 meters in length and 21 meters in beam, the destroyer can reach speeds of approximately 30 knots. Compared with the earlier Sejong-daewang class, the new class offers improved stealth shaping, more advanced radar and combat systems, and enhanced detection and tracking of ballistic missile threats. It also features domestically developed sonar, long- and short-range anti-submarine torpedoes, and will embark MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, significantly boosting its anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Another key innovation is its propulsion system. In addition to four gas turbines, the ship is equipped with two hybrid electric drive (HED) units, reducing fuel consumption during cruising and minimizing underwater noise for greater survivability in hostile environments.
Defense officials hailed the launch as a symbol of South Korea’s growing defense industry and technological strength. Once commissioned, the Dasan Jeong Yak-yong will join the Republic of Korea Navy’s Fleet Command, strengthening deterrence and reinforcing the country’s role as a leading naval power in the region.
