Chamsuri II (Corvette)
Frigateconfirmed
The Gumdoksuri-class, often referred to as Chamsuri II, is a class of patrol killer guided missile boats of the Republic of Korea Navy. These vessels are designed as successors to the original Chamsuri-class, featuring enhanced stealth capabilities and advanced weaponry for coastal defense.
Specifications
| Type | Frigate |
| Origin | South Korea |
| Manufacturer | Hanjin Heavy Industries, STX Offshore & Shipbuilding |
| Introduced | 2008 |
| Status | In service |
| Speed | 74 km/h |
| Range | 3,700 km |
| Crew | 45 |
| Weight | 570 t |
History
Developed in the wake of the bloody Second Battle of Yeonpyeong in 2002, this class was designed to address the vulnerability of older patrol craft by incorporating superior firepower, armored protection, and radar-evading hull designs. The lead ship of the class, Yoon Youngha—named after the commander killed in the 2002 clash—entered active service with the Republic of Korea Navy in 2008. These vessels have been heavily deployed along the tense Northern Limit Line in the West Sea, serving as a primary deterrent against North Korean naval provocations. Today, the fleet remains fully active, forming the backbone of South Korea's frontline coastal defense alongside the newer PKX-B patrol craft.
Operators
| Country | Quantity | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| South Korea | 18 | confirmed |
Text adapted from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Photo from Wikimedia Commons; see the Wikipedia article for author and license.