Hanwha Ocean has achieved a significant milestone in the localization of sound equipment designed for submarines, including an echo sounder, a sonar beacon, and a launch-type underwater environment monitor.
This achievement is the result of five years of continuous research and development, and it is expected to greatly enhance the operational capabilities and survivability of submarines.
The localization rate of the Jang Bogo-III class Batch-II submarine is projected to exceed 80% due to this successful localization effort. In comparison, the Jangbogo-III class Batch-I submarine had a localization rate of 76.2%.
Submarines rely on long-wavelength sound waves for navigation in underwater environments, making the sonar system a crucial component, akin to the eyes of a submarine. Hanwha Ocean's localized echo sounder, sonar beacon, and launch-type underwater environment monitor serve as essential equipment for submarine sonar systems.
The echo sounder emits sound waves to measure the depth of the sea and the submerged depth of the submarine. The sonar beacon plays a vital role in distress situations by emitting sound waves to indicate the submarine's location. The launch-type underwater environment monitor continuously analyzes the underwater environment during operations, improving the accuracy of the submarine's sonar system, which can be affected by factors like water temperature and tides.
An important advantage of these locally produced equipment is their superior cost competitiveness and efficiency compared to imported alternatives. By eliminating dependence on foreign monopolies and manufacturing these equipment domestically, a cost reduction of approximately 50% can be anticipated.
Furthermore, the use of domestic equipment offers operational efficiency, as repairs can be conducted underwater instead of requiring the submarine to be lifted to land for maintenance, as was the case with imported equipment.
These localized equipment also hold great economic potential. They can be installed not only on existing submarines like the Jang Bogo-II class through performance improvement projects but also on future South Korean submarines and export-oriented submarines
“The localization of the submarine sound equipment will greatly contribute to the enhancement of maritime defense capabilities," said an official from Hanwha Ocean. "We will contribute to the self-reliant national defense of the Republic of Korea through continuous localization.”
