South Korea to deploy 12th guided-missile destroyer in 2014

South Korea will deploy the 12th guided-missile destroyer, built solely on its indigenous technology, in early 2014, Seoul's Defense Ministry said Monday. STX Offshore & Shipbuilding, the country's No. 4 shipbuilder, delivered the guided-missile patrol killer to the Navy, according to the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), the country's defense procurement agency. Defense Ministry spokesman Kim Min-seok told reporters that the high-speed destroyer will be deployed in early 2014 following the two-month-long preparations. The 450-ton warship can sail at the maximum speed of 40 knots, accommodating 40 crew members. It was fitted with various combat capabilities developed domestically such as anti-ship missiles and 76 mm guns. The ship will carry out patrol missions and defend shorelines and harbor areas, the DAPA said.