Republic of Korea Navy
South Korea's naval service; observed an uncrewed ship trial off California in October 2026.
Last refreshed: 8 November 2026 · Appears in 1 active topic
Timeline for Republic of Korea Navy
Mentioned in: Korea clears 591bn won mine-warfare USVs
Autonomous Systems: Land & SeaMentioned in: HD Hyundai sails 368-ton ship uncrewed
Autonomous Systems: Land & SeaBackground
Republic of Korea Navy personnel were among nearly 40 observers at HD Hyundai's uncrewed trial off Long Beach, California, in October 2026, where HD Hyundai's VAone autonomy sailed a modified 368-ton former US Navy vessel.
The Republic of Korea Navy is South Korea's naval service. On 6 November 2026 South Korea's Defense Project Promotion Committee cleared basic strategies for a 591bn won mine-warfare uncrewed surface vessel programme, and approved the Jangbogo-N nuclear-powered submarine at the same meeting.
Both moves put uncrewed vessels into South Korea's naval planning alongside its submarine fleet.
What uncrewed boats is South Korea buying for mine warfare?
What is the Jangbogo-N submarine?
Did the South Korean Navy watch HD Hyundai's uncrewed ship trial?
Written with AI from Lowdown's published reporting. Not individually reviewed by an editor. Updated 8 November 2026. Editorial standards.