GE Aerospace has been contracted to deliver an additional eight LM500 marine gas turbine engines to support the Republic of Korea Navy’s (ROKN) PKX-B Batch-II patrol boat programme.
The contract covers the propulsion needs of ships numbered nine through 12.
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This follows previous selections for the first eight vessels in March 2023 and March 2024, underscoring the LM500’s suitability for rigorous naval operations.
The ROKN’s PKX-B Batch-II patrol boats are designed to bolster littoral defence through quick response and robust firepower in coastal and near-shore environments.
The LM500 engines feat compact structure, exceptional power-to-weight ratio, and fuel efficiency, making them ideal for the combined diesel and gas turbine setup.
This configuration enables the PKX-B Batch-II vessels to reach high speeds for swift action while conserving fuel during cruising.
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By GlobalDataThe production of these gas turbine components will take place in Lynn, Massachusetts, US.
Subsequently, Hanwha Aerospace will be responsible for assembling and testing the engines prior to their installation on the vessels.
As a partner licensed by GE Aerospace within South Korea, Hanwha plays a critical role in co-producing engine parts for the ROKN and ensures ongoing support with spare parts and services throughout each ship’s operational lifespan.
This collaboration is bolstered by GE Aerospace field service teams who provide direct assistance to the Korean Navy within South Korea.
GE Aerospace Marine Engines & Systems business Sales and Marketing vice president Mark Musheno said: “This contract award reinforces GE Aerospace’s position as a trusted provider of marine propulsion systems for navies that demand the best.
“We are pleased to extend our long-standing relationship with the Republic of Korea Navy, soon to be powering 77 ships with 156 marine gas turbines.”
The Marine Engines & Systems division of GE Aerospace delivers marine propulsion systems that are both power-dense and ready for combat to satisfy the needs of modern navies.
In April 2025, Hanwha Aerospace announced its plans to enter the uncrewed aircraft systems market through a partnership with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI).
