Okpo Shipyard Launches Korea’s First Salvage and Rescue Ship

The launching ceremony for the first salvage and rescue ship constructed in Korea on behalf of the Korean Navy was held on 4th September in Okpo shipyard. The vessel is named ‘Tongyeong’ and is the first of its kind constructed by DSME. It is scheduled for delivery in the second half of 2013.

Salvage and rescue ships (ATS) accomplish a number of different types of rescue missions such as assisting ships that have run aground, salvaging sunken ships and air planes, extinguishing fires at sea, and preventing sea pollution.

The ‘Tongyeong’ warship is the first salvage and rescue vessel constructed using only Korean technology. It is 107.5m long, 16.8m wide, 3,500 light load displacement tonnage, and is fitted with high-tech rescue equipment. This ship’s maximum speed is 21knot so it is possible to accomplish rescue missions rapidly. It also possesses a hydro winch which can be used to tow large platform transport ships if required.

This vessel’s search ability has been markedly improved by possessing a side scanning sonar and a remotely operated vehicle able to search in water up to 3,000m in depth.

As part of its urgent response capabilities, this ship is equipped with a treatment chamber that is able to accommodate a maximum of 8 people and it is possible for a medium size helicopter to take off and land on the deck.

By successfully launching the ‘Tongyeong’ and delivering around 60 warships and submarines to date, DSME has reinforced it’s position as a strong competitor in the battleship market.

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Source: DSME, September 18, 2012