Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

The next mine layer ship, Nampo Ship, delivered to Korean Navy

A leading-edge mine layer ship, Nampo Ship, was delivered by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration to the Republic of Korea Navy on June 9. Following a seven-month force integration process, the Nampo Ship will be scheduled for deployment in early 2018. After deployment, it will carry out its important mission of defending main ports and key sea sectors.  

The Nampo ship was constructed by Hyundai Heavy Industries starting in December 2012. It went through an operation test and evaluation, including a trial operation and the Defense Agency for Technology and Quality's quality assurance activities, before being delivered to the Korean Navy on June 9. It is a 3000-ton ship and can carry 120 crew members, at a maximum speed of 23 knots (42㎞ per hour). During wartime, it lays mines at main ports and sea sectors and commands warships as a flagship of the mine warfare group. With its helicopter deck, it can also conduct marine and air operations.  

“Nampo Ship is equipped with the latest weapon systems developed domestically, including mine laying systems, combat systems, sound navigation and ranging (SONAR) and radar. It is expected that the Republic of Korea Navy's operational ability in force integration will be greatly improved,” said a source from the Navy.

By Yeong-Sun, Lee < ys119@dema.mil.kr >

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