Twelve engines for six warships
GE Aerospace will supply 12 LM2500+G4 marine gas turbine engines for six KDDX-class destroyers being developed for the Republic of Korea Navy. The vessels are part of South Korea’s broader effort to modernize and strengthen its naval forces.
The value of the agreement has not been disclosed. The new destroyers will feature a fully electric propulsion architecture designed to provide greater operational flexibility, improved fuel efficiency and additional capacity for future upgrades.
Electric propulsion designed for demanding missions
The integration of the LM2500+G4 engines into the KDDX platform’s all-electric propulsion system is expected to improve onboard power management while providing additional energy reserves for future naval systems. The configuration is also intended to enhance redundancy and increase the ships’ ability to remain operational in combat conditions.
GE Aerospace views the transition to fully electric propulsion as a significant step toward the next generation of naval propulsion technology. The company also emphasized that the program would strengthen industrial cooperation in South Korea and support the expansion of local manufacturing capabilities.
Hanwha Aerospace to support local production
Hanwha Aerospace, GE’s South Korean partner, will manufacture a range of engine components locally. It will also be involved in engine assembly and testing, while providing maintenance and technical support throughout the vessels’ operational lifecycles.
The partnership builds on an established industrial relationship. South Korea’s navy has already acquired 163 GE Aerospace marine gas turbines for installation aboard 95 ships.
Hanwha Ocean selected as preferred shipbuilder
Hanwha Ocean, the shipbuilding arm of the Hanwha Group, has been selected as the preferred bidder for the KDDX program. Its proposal was chosen over a competing offer submitted by Hyundai.
The company is still negotiating the final terms of the agreement with the South Korean government. If the contract is concluded, Hanwha Ocean will be responsible for the detailed design and construction of the lead ship in the class.
A program worth 7.8 trillion won
Each KDDX destroyer is expected to displace approximately 7,000 tons. The overall program is estimated to be worth 7.8 trillion won, or roughly $5.75 billion.
Through the KDDX program, South Korea aims to expand its naval warfare capabilities, increase ship automation and develop a platform capable of integrating future generations of power, combat and weapons systems.
