Hanwha Systems Begins Development of Key Systems for Next-Generation Ulsan-Class Frigate

Hanwha Systems is set to develop the core operational system for the Republic of Korea Navy's next-generation Ulsan-Class Frigate, designated ‘Ulsan-Class Batch IV (FFX Batch IV).’ Recently, Hanwha Systems announced that it secured a contract from the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) for the development of the 'Integrated Engine Control System (ECS)' for the first Ulsan-Class Batch IV vessel. This development marks a significant milestone as it will be the first instance of an integrated engine control system being developed for domestic combat vessels.

Through the ECS, which will be developed using pure domestic technology, Hanwha Systems will obtain capabilities similar to those held by only a few advanced countries such as the United States and Italy. Until now, South Korean naval vessels have relied on various foreign products, which limited logistics support and performance upgrades. The Integrated Engine Control System (ECS) is an advanced control device that integrates propulsion, power generation, auxiliary devices, and damage control systems into a single network, enabling the vessel to operate stably and efficiently during missions.



It is often referred to as the ‘heart’ of the vessel and is expected to play a crucial role in realizing the future's hyper-intelligent and automated ships alongside the combat management system (CMS), which Hanwha Systems independently developed and localized as the 'brain' of the ship. In addition to the ECS, Hanwha Systems plans to supply a variety of key equipment for the Ulsan-Class Batch IV, including the Combat Management System (CMS), Multi-Function Phased Array Radar (MFR), Infrared Search and Track (IRST) systems, and Electro-Optical Tracking Systems (EOTS). “As the only domestic company possessing advanced technology in both combat systems and integrated engine control systems, we are continuously promoting the localization of core vessel systems," said an official from Hanwha Systems.

"The ECS is not only optimized for naval vessels but can also serve as a ‘smart ship core solution’ for commercial ships, driving advancements in autonomous navigation and vessel platform upgrades.”.