Republic of Korea Navy unveils new type of combat-capable USV

The Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) recently unveiled a conceptual model of a new type of unmanned surface vehicle (USV) designed for offensive missions.

Weapons options for the USV will include a 20mm cannon fitted on a remotely controlled mount, 76mm guided rockets, 130mm guided rockets that can strike surface targets up to 20 kilometres away, and C-Star anti-ship cruise missiles.

The craft will have provisions for the integration of sensors such as an AESA radar and an automated targeting and fire control system and protective systems such as a decoy launcher. The propulsion arrangement will include three waterjets.

Development of the combat USV is the latest in a series of ROKN unmanned systems projects.

In December 2024, South Korean technology company LIG Nex1 was awarded a contract to build a new type of 12-metre USV to be used by the ROKN for reconnaissance missions.

These USVs, which will be designed to be deployed from the ROKN's forward bases and other key ports, will feature modular construction to permit the integration of mission-specific sensors and armament.