Korea deploys advanced sea-based radar

South Korea has deployed advanced sea-based radar systems on its naval vessels operating near the western maritime border to better monitor North Korean activities, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration said Monday.

STX Engine has developed the sea-based radar platform for 5.1 billion won ($5 million) to replace older systems after the North shelled Yeonpyeongdo Island near the tensely guarded border in November 2010, killing four South Koreans, the DAPA said.

The region also saw the sinking of a South Korean warship eight months earlier that resulted in the death of 46 sailors. Seoul accused the North of torpedoing the ship, while the North has denied involvement.

The radar is capable of detecting ships 25 kilometers away and has various advanced detection capabilities, with 80 percent of components being indigenously made, the agency said.

The radar system connects to the naval data tactical system based on the military satellites to facilitate communications among combat ships, it said. (Yonhap News)