Hanwha Systems to supply EO/IR systems for RoKN support ships
Hanwha Systems' naval EO/IR system, based on the company's Target Acquisition Designation System (TADS). (Hanwha Systems)
Hanwha Systems is developing electro-optic/infrared (EO/IR) systems for the Republic of Korea Navy's (RoKN's) logistics and rescue vessels.
The company said on 14 August that it had secured a contract from South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) to supply EO/IR systems for four RoKN vessels: a logistics support ship, a submarine rescue ship, and two surface rescue ships.
The systems will be based on Hanwha's Target Acquisition Designation System (TADS), developed for the Republic of Korea Army's (RoKA's) Light Armed Helicopter (LAH).
According to Hanwha Systems, TADS includes a daylight camera, thermal imager, laser rangefinder, and laser designator to support target detection, identification, and engagement. The system is designed to operate in temperatures ranging from −35°C to 55°C and in challenging weather conditions, including indirect lightning strikes.
Hanwha Systems plans to complete deliveries by the end of 2028. The company added that it will also provide a video-transmission system capable of sharing surveillance footage from the EO/IR systems in real time with command centres and allied naval platforms.
DAPA said RoKN logistics and rescue vessels lack the advanced electro-optical targeting systems (EOTS) fielded on combat vessels. As a result, crews rely heavily on visual observation during maritime surveillance and search-and-rescue (SAR) operations.
DAPA added this capability gap, combined with growing asymmetric threats such as unmanned aerial and surface vehicles, has increased the urgency of enhancing the surveillance capabilities of the RoKN support platforms.
The new EO/IR systems are expected to improve target detection and identification in low-visibility and adverse weather conditions while supporting faster responses during SAR missions, DAPA said.
Hanwha Systems had not responded to Janes
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