The Korean Next-Generation Destroyer (KDDX) program, a cornerstone of the country’s naval modernization plan, is once again facing significant delays, raising concerns over national security and strategic readiness.

With a total budget of 7.8 trillion won ($5.6 billion), the program plans to deploy six 6,000-ton Aegis-equipped destroyers by 2030, replacing aging vessels scheduled for retirement in the late 2020s. Despite the project’s scale and urgency, contractor selection and the start of detailed design work have been repeatedly delayed, leaving its future uncertain.

On the surface, the delays seem driven by disputes between domestic defense firms. The company in charge of the basic design argues that it should naturally continue with detailed design and construction, while its rival insists on open competitive bidding. This contracting disagreement has dominated headlines. However, the deeper problem lies in slow government decision-making and repeated postponements of key agenda items. Since the completion of the basic design in........

© The Korea Times