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The Republic of Korea’s Navy has announced upgrades to boost the top speed of their PKX-B Batch-II fast attack craft to achieve an estimated top speed of 40 knots with new LM500 gas turbines built by GE Marine.
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The first four of 18 Batch-II hi-speed ships entered construction from late last year.
A total of 32 LM500 gas turbines have been fitted to 16 PKX-B Chamsuri KPMR 211 Class Batch-I vessels after being manufactured in GE’s Lynn facility, delivered to Hanwha Aerospace and assembled at the South Korean HJ Shipbuilding and Construction company for installation.
GE Marine sales and marketing vice-president Mark Musheno said the gas turbines are derived from turbofan aircraft engines and corrosion-resistant materials.
“GE has supplied the ROK Navy with 155 marine gas turbines for 91 ships to date, and we are honoured that GE marine gas turbines will continue to power their newest patrol boats,” he said.
“We look forward to further strengthening our relationships in-country for this next-generation ship.”
The next-generation Batch-II is considered a significant upgrade with guided missiles, a long-range fire control system, electronic warfare systems, and a stealth design better than existing Chamsuri fast boats.
