Press Releases
Three Next-Generation Aegis Destroyers Gather at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Ulsan Shipyard
On February 19, 2026, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) marked a symbolic moment in Korea’s naval shipbuilding history by designating the day as “Aegis Destroyer Day” at its Ulsan Shipyard. On this occasion, three of the Republic of Korea Navy’s most advanced Aegis destroyers — the ROKS Jeongjo the Great, ROKS Dasan Jeong Yak-yong, and ROKS Daeho Kim Jong-seo — assembled in one place, representing the cutting edge of naval technology and defense capability.
The three vessels belong to the Jeongjo the Great-class (KDX-III Batch-II) series and were either built by, or are currently under construction at, HHI’s Ulsan facilities:
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ROKS Jeongjo the Great, the first ship of the class, was completed and delivered to the Republic of Korea Navy in 2024.
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ROKS Dasan Jeong Yak-yong, launched in December of the previous year, is currently undergoing sea trials and is scheduled for delivery later this year.
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ROKS Daeho Kim Jong-seo is now under construction and is expected to be handed over to the Navy after launching and sea trials in December 2027.
The Jeongjo the Great-class destroyers are among the world’s most advanced surface combatants, measuring approximately 170 meters in length, 21 meters in beam, and displacing 8,200 tons. With a maximum speed of 30 knots and significantly enhanced target detection and tracking capabilities compared to previous classes, these vessels are core strategic assets within Korea’s maritime three-axis defense system — including ballistic missile defense.
In recognition of the achievement, HHI invited the commanding officers of all three destroyers to the shipyard and expressed gratitude for their dedication and service. Mr. Joo Won-ho, President of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, stated that having three state-of-the-art Aegis destroyers gathered together is a meaningful and symbolic scene showcasing not only HHI’s shipbuilding expertise but also the elevated global status of Korea’s maritime defense industry on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.
Over the past five decades, HHI has led the basic design and construction of Korea’s most advanced combat ships, from the early domestically developed Ulsan-class frigates to today’s Aegis destroyers, and has delivered more than 100 naval and special vessels.
