Sejong the Great Audio Brief (Patreon)

The Sejong the Great-class destroyers are a class of guided-missile destroyers operated by the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN). Named after the renowned Korean monarch Sejong the Great, these ships are among the world's largest and most advanced destroyers. Here are the key technical aspects:

• Displacement and Size: These destroyers have a full load displacement of over 11,000 tons, making them some of the largest destroyers in operation. They measure approximately 166 meters in length and 21 meters in beam.

• Propulsion: The Sejong the Great-class ships are powered by a combined gas and gas (COGAG) propulsion system, consisting of four General Electric LM2500 gas turbines. This setup enables high speeds of over 30 knots (56 km/h; 35 mph).

• Armament: The primary armament includes the Aegis Combat System, which integrates the ship's sensors and weapons systems to engage anti-air, surface, and underwater threats. They are equipped with a mix of missile systems including the SM-2 Block IV and SM-6 air-defense missiles, the RIM-162 Evolved SeaSparrow Missile (ESSM), the K-VLS (Korean Vertical Launching System) for surface-to-surface and anti-submarine warfare, and Harpoon anti-ship missiles.

• Radar and Sensors: The Sejong the Great-class destroyers feature the AN/SPY-1D(V) multifunction radar as part of the Aegis system, providing comprehensive surveillance and targeting capabilities.

• Helicopter Facilities: These destroyers have a flight deck and hangar to accommodate two helicopters, enhancing their anti-submarine and search-and-rescue capabilities.

• Crew and Accommodation: They have accommodations for over 300 personnel, reflecting the large size and complex operational requirements of the vessels.

In summary, the Sejong the Great-class destroyers are formidable assets in the ROKN, equipped with advanced weaponry, radar systems, and propulsion, reflecting South Korea's naval capabilities and strategic ambitions.