Hanwha Ocean Successfully Localizes Core Acoustic Equipment for Submarines

Cost Reduction and Efficiency Improvement
"Achieving Over 80% Localization Rate"

Hanwha Ocean announced on the 12th that it has succeeded in domesticating acoustic equipment that enhances the operational performance and survivability of submarines after five years of research.

With the success of localization, the domestic production rate of the Jangbogo-III Batch-II class submarine is expected to exceed 80%. The domestic production rate of the Jangbogo-III Batch-I class submarine, Dosan An Changho, is 76.2%.

Submarines operating underwater use long-wavelength sound waves to explore their surroundings. The sonar (Sound Navigation And Ranging) acts as the eyes of the submarine.

The acoustic depth sounder, sonar beacon, and launchable underwater environmental measuring device that Hanwha Ocean has localized this time are core equipment of the submarine sonar. The acoustic depth sounder emits sound waves to measure the depth of the sea and the submarine's diving depth. The sonar beacon emits sound waves in case of distress to indicate its location. The launchable underwater environmental measuring device continuously analyzes the underwater environment during operations, improving the accuracy of the submarine sonar, which is affected by water temperature and currents.

The model of Hanwha Ocean's Jangbogo-III Batch-II displayed at the International Maritime Defense Industry Exhibition (MADEX) held at BEXCO, Busan on the 7th of last month.
Photo by Hanwha Ocean

Compared to existing imported equipment, price competitiveness and efficiency have been secured. By localizing these devices, which were imported from overseas monopolistic companies, a cost reduction effect of about 50% can be expected. Imported equipment required the submarine to be brought ashore for repairs when problems occurred, but domestic products can be serviced underwater. Additionally, they can be installed not only on already constructed submarines but also on future domestic and export-type submarines, which is expected to increase economic benefits.

Last month, Hanwha Ocean succeeded in domesticating vibration-damping materials that reduce vibration and noise of warships to enhance operational performance. A Hanwha Ocean official said, "The localization of submarine acoustic equipment this time will greatly contribute to strengthening maritime defense capabilities," adding, "We will contribute to self-reliant defense through continuous localization."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.