South Korean firm to build reconnaissance-capable USVs

The Defence Acquisition Program Administration of South Korea has awarded local technology company LIG Nex1 a contract to build a new type of unmanned surface vehicle (USV) to be used by the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) for reconnaissance missons.

The contract has total cost of approximately KRW39.86 billion (US$27.25 million) and covers the construction of two USVs each measuring 12 metres long. Deliveries to the ROKN are scheduled to begin in 2027.

The USVs are designed to be deployed from the ROKN's forward bases and other key ports. The craft will be of modular design to permit the integration of mission-specific sensors and armament.

LIG Nex1 expects the introduction of the USVs into ROKN service will ultimately lead to growing interest in the craft from defence operators overseas.

LIG Nex1 has prior experience in developing unmanned vessels for civilian and military use. Since 2015, the company has been independently developing the Sea Sword series of USVs to perform roles such as coastal surveillance and disaster response.