ROKS Munmu the Great (DDH-976) is a Template:Sclass- in the South Koreannavy. It was named after the Korean king Munmu of Silla.[1]
Design
The KDX-II is part of a much larger build up program aimed at turning the ROKN into a blue-water navy. It is said to be the first stealthy major combatant in the ROKN and was designed to significantly increase the ROKN's capabilities.[2]
Construction and career
In March 2009, Munmu the Great was sent overseas to protect merchant vessels from Somali pirates.[1] On 28 May 2007 during firing exercise on the open sea near Jinhae one of the projectiles exploded inside the 127 mm gun barrel which has been replaced later. In 2014 she conducted anti-piracy drills as part of Combined Task Force 151 in the Indian Ocean with HMS Defender.[3]
In April 2018, it was deployed to Ghana with personnel from the Special Warfare Brigade as part of a mission to rescue kidnapped South Korean fishermen.[4]
Gallery
ROKS Munmu the Great Gallery
ROKS Munmu the Great maneuvering during RIMPAC 2006.
ROKS Munmu The Great and ROKS Kwanggaeto The Great lighted ship’s lights to celebrate the July 4th Independence Day 2006.