GE Aerospace announced it will supply eight LM500 gas turbines for the Republic of Korea Navy’s new high-speed patrol vessels, specifically for hulls 9 through 12 of the PKX-B (Patrol Killer Experimental-B) Batch-II series. This follows previous engine orders for hulls 1 through 4 in 2023 and 5 through 8 in 2024. The continued selection of the LM500 reaffirms the turbine’s proven reliability and performance in meeting the Navy’s stringent requirements.
The PKX-B Batch-II high-speed vessels enhance the ROK Navy’s coastal defense capabilities with rapid response and superior firepower. The simplified engine design, high thrust-to-weight ratio, and fuel efficiency of the LM500 further boost the performance of the Combined Diesel and Gas Turbine (CODAG) propulsion system. This hybrid configuration allows the vessels to achieve high-speed maneuverability for quick response missions while maintaining fuel economy during cruising operations. The LM500’s demonstrated output and dependability make it an optimal engine for mission-critical roles aboard the new PKX-B vessels.
Mark Musheno, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for GE Aerospace’s Marine Engines & Systems division, stated that GE Aerospace has firmly established itself as a trusted propulsion system provider for navies with the highest performance standards. He also expressed pride in the company’s long-standing support of the Republic of Korea Navy, noting that with this latest contract, GE Aerospace has supplied 156 marine gas turbines for 77 Korean naval vessels.
The gas turbine components are manufactured in Lynn, Massachusetts, and delivered to Hanwha Aerospace for final assembly and testing. As GE Aerospace’s long-time licensed manufacturing partner, Hanwha Aerospace also produces engine components for ROK Navy ships and provides spare parts and local service throughout each vessel’s life cycle. Through close cooperation with GE Aerospace’s domestic field service team, the company aims to build a strategic relationship that leverages global expertise and local capabilities to support the ROK Navy.
Comments0