OVERVIEW: The SS 087 *Lee Bong-chang* [Dosan Ahn Changho Class, Batch 2] is a diesel-electric attack submarine (SSK) operated by the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN). The *Lee Bong-chang* represents the second batch of the *Dosan Ahn Changho*-class, featuring advancements over the initial vessels in sensor integration and offensive capabilities.

DETAILS:
The *Dosan Ahn Changho* class represents South Korea's ambitious push to develop an indigenous submarine design and manufacturing capability. The program began in the early 2000s, driven by a desire for greater operational independence and the need to replace older, license-built submarines. The design philosophy behind the class emphasizes a balance between stealth, endurance, and firepower, enabling it to operate effectively in the complex littoral environments surrounding the Korean Peninsula and further afield. The Batch 2 submarines, like the *Lee Bong-chang*, incorporate lessons learned from the operation of the first batch and feature an improved sonar suite and potentially enhanced battery technology for extended submerged endurance. The name *Lee Bong-chang* is a tribute to a Korean patriot who attempted to assassinate Emperor Hirohito in 1932, reflecting the ROKN's focus on national defense and sovereignty.

The *Lee Bong-chang*'s primary roles are anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), intelligence gathering, and special operations forces (SOF) support. The submarine is designed to hunt and engage enemy submarines and surface combatants, providing a critical component of South Korea's maritime defense. Its advanced sensors, including the KSS-3 Hull Sonar and Flank Array, give it a significant advantage in detecting and tracking targets in both shallow and deep water environments. The vessel's K-VLS system provides a potent strike capability against land-based targets using indigenously developed submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), offering a strategic deterrent capability. The *Lee Bong-chang* can also deploy and retrieve SOF teams covertly, further extending its operational flexibility.

The *Lee Bong-chang* is equipped with a comprehensive suite of sensors and weapons tailored for modern undersea warfare. The Sphynx radar provides surface search and navigation capabilities, while the Series 30 SMS Photonics Mast and OMS 100 / SERO 400 Periscope Suite offer enhanced situational awareness at periscope depth. The MOAS (Mine and Obstacle Avoidance System) enables safe navigation in mine-infested waters. The combination of the KSS-3 Hull Sonar, Flank Array, Intercept Array, and TASS (Towed Array Sonar System) allows for long-range detection, classification, and tracking of underwater targets. The Pegaso RESM (Radar Electronic Support Measures) system provides passive detection and identification of enemy radar emissions. The TAU-2000 decoy launcher enhances survivability by countering incoming torpedoes. The 533mm torpedo tubes are compatible with a range of torpedoes and anti-ship missiles, while the K-VLS system, with its 10 cells, provides a significant offensive punch.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 89.5 m || Beam: 9.6 m || Draft: 7.62 m || Disp: 3358 t

SENSORS: Sphynx || Series 30 SMS Photonics Mast || OMS 100 / SERO 400 Periscope Suite || MOAS || KSS-3 Hull Sonar || KSS-3 Flank Array || KSS-3 Intercept Array || KSS-3 TASS || Pegaso RESM

ARMAMENT: TAU-2000 DL || 533mm TT || K-VLS [10 Cells]