According to information published by SA Defensa on August 26, 2024, the Uruguayan Navy’s future Chamsuri-class speedboat Huracán has begun its journey to Montevideo, Uruguay, after being loaded onto a heavy transport ship. This development represents an important step towards incorporating the vessel into Uruguay’s naval operations after South Korea’s donation in 2022.
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Chamsuri-class speedboat Huracan in Masan, South Korea. (Image source: Uruguayan Navy)

Developed by Korea Tacoma Marine Industries, the Chamsuri-class patrol boats have played a significant role in the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) since their introduction in the 1970s.

Designed for a variety of naval roles, these ships were built to conduct coastal patrols, monitor exclusive economic zones, combat smuggling operations, and conduct rapid strikes against enemy forces. Their robust construction enables them to withstand ramming and other impacts during close combat.

They are approximately 37 metres long, 6.9 metres wide and have a draught of 2 metres. They displace approximately 148 tonnes. They are equipped with a combined diesel and gas propulsion system (CODAG) and are powered by two MTU MD 16V 538 TB90 diesel engines, providing a propulsion power of 6,000 hp. With this configuration, the boats reach speeds of up to 37 knots and offer a range of approximately 600 nautical miles when cruising at 20 knots.

Standard equipment often includes a mix of 20mm and 30mm automatic cannons, a 40mm Bofors gun and .50 caliber machine guns. Newer models have incorporated automatic fire control systems in place of older optical sights, improving accuracy and reaction time in combat situations. The boats are also equipped with a KDAGAIE Mk2 anti-missile decoy system, which fires electromagnetic or infrared decoys to confuse incoming missiles and provide protection against guided missile threats.

In addition to their armament, these patrol boats are equipped with modern sensors and radar systems. These include the STX RadarSys SPS-100k surface search radar and the Saab CEROS fire radar and optronic tracking system.

The Chamsuri class was built in two main variants, the PKM 201 and PKM 301 series, with some differences in armament arrangement and superstructure design.

In addition to being widely used by the ROKN, these boats have also been transferred to other navies, including those of Bangladesh, Kazakhstan and the Philippines. Each recipient country has adapted the Chamsuri class to suit its specific operational requirements, often renaming them in accordance with local naval traditions.