The first of three next-generation Aegis Combat System-equipped destroyers built for the Republic of Korea Navy, ROKS Jeongjo the Great, undergoes test operations at sea in this undated file photo. Courtesy of HD Hyundai

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) has officially commenced the construction of another next-generation Aegis Combat System-equipped destroyer named Gwanggaeto-III Batch-II, which will become a crucial maritime force for the Korean Air and Missile Defense (KAMD) system, the shipbuilder said Wednesday.

The keel-laying ceremony for the ship was held at the company's shipyard in Ulsan, Tuesday. HD HHI explained that the ceremony marks the initiation of a shipbuilding process with hopes for a successful and safe construction.

After the Republic of Korea Navy decided to introduce three 8,200-ton next-generation Aegis destroyers, HD HHI was chosen as the shipbuilder to construct all three vessels.

The first of the three ships, ROKS Jeongjo the Great, is undergoing test operations before its planned delivery to the navy during the second half of this year. The third vessel's construction will begin later this year.

The next-generation Aegis destroyer measures 170 meters in length, 21 meters in width and 8,200 tons in displacement. It can sail at a maximum speed of 30 knots, approximately 55 kilometers per hour.

Compared to the previous version of Aegis destroyer, ROKS Sejong the Great and the two other new ships, will feature ballistic missile interception and advanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

They will be equipped with land-attack ballistic guided missiles, long-range ship-to-air guided missiles, long-range anti-submarine torpedoes and lightweight torpedoes, as well as the latest Aegis Combat Systems, multifunction phased array radars, electro-optical tracking devices and integrated sonar systems.

In addition, a fuel-saving auxiliary propulsion system consisting of two 1.7-megawatt electric motors will enable each ship to economize fuel use.

HD HHI plans to launch the Gwanggaeto-III Batch-II and start its test operations next year. The ship is scheduled to be delivered to the navy in late 2026.

"It is expected to become a key maritime force for the KAMD system, as it can detect, track and intercept ballistic missiles, responding to various threats," an HD HHI official said.