Revolutionizing Submarine Tech: How Hanwha Ocean’s Hybrid AIP System is Outpacing Global Rivals

Hanwha Ocean’s Jang Young-sil, the lead ship of the Jangbogo-III Batch-II class, proposed for Canada’s CPSP project. / Hanwha Ocean

South Korean submarines are making waves in the global market, thanks to their proven reliability in real-world deployments. A key factor in their success is the development of advanced propulsion systems that address the underwater endurance limitations of diesel submarines while maintaining high power output. Domestic shipbuilders are also preparing for the future with a “manned-unmanned hybrid system” strategy, aiming to bolster naval capabilities and expand internationally.

Industry sources reported on the 10th that Hanwha Ocean has implemented a hydrogen fuel cell-based air-independent propulsion (AIP) system in the Jangbogo-III Batch-I (Dosan Ahn Chang-ho class) submarines. For the Batch-II (Jang Young-sil class), they’ve integrated lithium-ion batteries developed by Hanwha Aerospace, creating a hybrid propulsion system that combines batteries and fuel cells. This innovative combination is hailed by experts as a game-changer, significantly enhancing submerged capabilities and speed.

In Canada’s submarine acquisition project (CPSP), Hanwha Ocean has emphasized its technological edge by proposing this hybrid propulsion system. While German competitor TKMS has presented a similar concept, Hanwha Ocean’s advantage lies in its real-world experience, having already implemented the system in South Korean Navy submarines.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has developed the nation’s first lithium-ion battery-based power supply system for submarines, boosting operational efficiency. This innovation has reportedly increased submarine submerged endurance by over 50% and extended high-speed navigation capabilities. For the CPSP project, they’ve proposed a Canada-specific model based on the Dosan Ahn Chang-ho class design, incorporating lithium-ion batteries.

Building on their propulsion system expertise, shipbuilders are now focusing on manned-unmanned hybrid systems as their next strategic move. While advanced batteries and fuel cells enhance submarine endurance, autonomous and unmanned technologies are seen as solutions to manpower shortages and operational efficiency challenges.

Hanwha Ocean is rapidly developing a system to operate reconnaissance unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) alongside manned submarines. These drone-like UUVs, housed within the submarine, can scout hazardous areas, enhancing mission effectiveness without risking crew lives. The company was recently named the preferred bidder for the ROK Navy’s “Concept Design Project for Reconnaissance UUVs and Mine Warfare Unmanned Surface Vessels” in 2024.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is collaborating with Daeyang Electric on export-oriented unmanned submarines while also developing the “Tenebris” unmanned surface vessel (USV) with global AI firm Palantir. This AI-powered USV is expected to work in tandem with manned submarines for surveillance, reconnaissance, and mine clearance operations.

The future competitiveness of South Korean submarines will depend on their ability to effectively integrate manned submarines with unmanned systems. The successful incorporation of cutting-edge technologies like AI to dramatically enhance underwater operational capabilities is seen as the next frontier for K-Submarines.

A Hanwha Ocean spokesperson stated, “We are committed to continuously enhancing our technological edge to penetrate the global naval defense market, particularly in the U.S. and Europe. Our goal is to lead international naval projects and showcase South Korean expertise on the world stage.”