In addition to the well-known launch of several heavyweight weapons ranging from frigates, submarines, artillery products to fighter jets, apparently South Korea has not forgotten the development of high-speed light fast patrol boats.
To be precise, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) under the Ministry of Defense of South Korea has launched what is referred to as the "Phantom" High Speed Interceptor Craft (HSIC).
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Quoted from Navalnews.com (26/8/2022), it is stated that the advantage of the Phantom is that it is capable of sprinting at 60 knots or equivalent to 111 km per hour. This speed is obtained thanks to the support of a high-speed propulsion system with three 1,500 hp diesel engines and SPP (surface penetrating propulsion) which will maximize propulsion efficiency.
Phantom is expected to strengthen the South Korean Navy, especially put forward for patrol, rescue, infiltration, transportation, and limited combat missions.
The Phantom weighs 20 tons, is 20 meters long, 4 meters wide and 2.5 meters high. DAPA says the Phantom can sail 300 nautical miles (555 Km) with a crew of 12 and carry a payload of 2 tons.
Talking about weaponry, this interceptor ship is equipped with a choice of 12.7 mm heavy machine gun or 30 mm cannon with remote control weapon systems, and a medium 7.62 mm machine gun.
Another feature that complements the Phantom is the wheelhouse which is equipped with bulletproof protection. For infiltration and rescue purposes, this high speed boat is equipped with an inflatable boat
DAPA claims that the Phantom has good survivability and maneuverability. This phantom boat is made of carbon fiber composite material which is lighter than steel, aluminum, or other materials.
The ship's design is adapted to allow for top speed, enhancing stable maneuverability and crew safety while securing effective and efficient uptime. The Phantom's design is also said to be able to reduce the noise created by impulsive noise.
Although prepared for military needs, DAPA said HSIC is also capable of serving the needs of civilian patrols. Judging from the specifications and capabilities described above, it seems that this type of South Korean fast boat has been able to be made in Indonesia, especially by PT Lundin Industry Invest in Banyuwangi, East Java.
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