Seoul: Hanwha Ocean Co. announced its selection as the preferred bidder to construct South Korea's next-generation icebreaking research vessel, a project aimed at significantly enhancing the nation's polar exploration capabilities. The announcement marks a pivotal step in South Korea's efforts to advance its scientific research in polar regions.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the project is spearheaded by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, aiming to develop a state-of-the-art research vessel capable of navigating the harsh conditions of polar environments. The new icebreaker, slated for delivery by December 2029, will transition into the design phase following the signing of the main contract later this month. This vessel is intended to replace the Araon, South Korea's inaugural icebreaking research vessel launched in 2009, and will aid in conducting polar research amidst rapidly changing environmental conditions and stricter eco-friendly regulations.
Weighing in at 16,560 tons, the new vessel will be more than twice the size of its predecessor, the Araon. It will boast a dual-fuel liquefied natural gas (LNG) electric propulsion system, granting it the ability to break through ice up to 1.5 meters thick both forwards and in reverse. Additionally, the vessel will be operational in temperatures as low as minus 45 degrees Celsius, ensuring its functionality in some of the most extreme climates.
To optimize research performance under such conditions, the ship will feature premium onboard facilities, including cabins, lounges, and dining areas that provide a level of comfort comparable to luxury passenger vessels. This focus on comfort is designed to support researchers during extended missions in the polar regions.
Hanwha Ocean has been investing in polar-class shipbuilding technologies since 2008 and currently holds the world's largest track record for constructing icebreaking LNG carriers. The company has successfully completed 21 such vessels, with 15 orders fulfilled in 2014 and an additional six in 2020. A company official stated, "We will leverage the full capacity of our shipyard to deliver a cutting-edge solution for Korea's polar missions."