The Republic of Korea Marine Corps will deploy its first-ever combat vessel to the northwestern islands by the end of this year, marking the first introduction of a warship since the corps' founding.
On November 11, 2025, the Marine Corps and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) held a launching ceremony for the lead ship of the High-speed Combat Boat (HCB-001) at Gangnam Shipyard in Saha-gu, Busan. The vessel was named "Cheongsaechi," after the blue marlin, the fastest and most powerful fish in the sea.
The name "Cheongsaechi" was chosen to best represent the essence of a high-speed combat boat, drawing from the fish's unmatched speed and striking power among marine species.
When a blue marlin spots its prey, it moves at high speed and attacks by thrusting or swinging its spear-like upper jaw — an image that aligns with the combat boat's mission of rapidly deploying to operational areas for battle. The English name "Marlin" also echoes "Marine," reinforcing the symbolism for the Marine Corps.
The HCB-001 "Cheongsaechi" is faster and offers greater protection than the older rubber-hull Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs). After a period of test evaluation, the vessel will be handed over to the Marine Corps by the end of this year and immediately enter operational service.
The initial deployment will prioritize border areas, including the northwestern islands where the 6th Brigade is stationed. Subsequent deployments will follow in phases, including to the 2nd Marine Division, which covers Gimpo and Ganghwa, and the 1st Marine Division in Pohang. The second vessel is targeted for operational deployment by the end of 2028.
The 18-meter-class boat is armed with a Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) and other weaponry. Powered by a domestically developed water-jet propulsion system, it can travel at a top speed of 80 kilometers per hour (45 knots) even in shallow waters, providing superior mobility. Ballistic armor plating has been applied to key areas to ensure the survivability of crew and embarked troops.
In emergencies, the boat can shorten the time required to transport troops from Incheon to Baengnyeong Island from four to five hours to under three hours. Troops are expected to reach Yeonpyeong Island in about one hour.
The exact passenger capacity has not been disclosed. During development, each vessel was reportedly designed to rapidly transport around 20 armed troops.
"The high-speed combat boat is the first warship to be introduced by the Marine Corps and represents a concentration of domestic shipbuilding and defense science technology," Marine Corps Commandant Joo Il-seok said. "Once operationally deployed, it will carry out missions such as the rapid deployment of reinforcement forces, strengthening the Marine Corps' role in defending the nation and its people."
