KSS-III Submarine

Full Specifications

KSS-III Dosan Ahn Changho Class Submarine

The KSS-III, also known as the Dosan Ahn Changho class, represents South Koreas most advanced indigenous submarine program to date. Designed to enhance undersea deterrence and long range strike capability, the KSS-III marks the Republic of Korea Navys transition toward blue water submarine operations with strategic relevance in the Indo Pacific region.

Manufacturer and Origin

The submarine is developed under South Koreas KSS program and built primarily by Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering, now Hanwha Ocean, with participation from Hyundai Heavy Industries. It is fully designed and produced domestically, reflecting South Koreas growing self reliance in advanced naval systems.

Speed, Range, and Performance

The KSS-III is a diesel electric attack submarine equipped with an advanced air independent propulsion system, allowing extended submerged endurance without snorkeling. It achieves submerged speeds of around 20 knots and has an operational range exceeding 10,000 nautical miles when surfaced. The design emphasizes low acoustic signatures, aided by anechoic hull coatings and raft mounted machinery.

Armament and Technology

A key feature of the KSS-III is its vertical launch system, enabling the deployment of submarine launched ballistic missiles and cruise missiles. Standard armament includes heavyweight torpedoes, anti ship missiles, naval mines, and decoys. The submarine integrates a modern combat management system, advanced flank array sonar, and secure communications suitable for network centric operations.

Cost and Program Status

Each KSS-III submarine is estimated to cost between 900 million and 1.1 billion US dollars, depending on configuration and production batch. The class entered service in the early 2020s, with multiple units operational and additional boats under construction.