South Korean defence industry demonstrates its tech prowess
Hanwha Aerospace has ambitious plans for the K9 155mm howitzer family, including an optionally manned K9A3 version. (Photo: Gordon Arthur)
Shephard takes a deep dive into the latest developments in the South Korean defence sector as the country arms itself to deal with current and future threats.
The Republic of Korea Army (ROKA) has recently showcased numerous new items of kit including four new weapon systems: the Light Armed Helicopter from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI); the containerised 20kW Cheongwang (Sky Light) Laser Anti-Air Weapon Block I from Hanwha Defense; Korean Tactical Surface-to-Surface Missile (KTSSM-I) Ure (Thunder) and 230mm unguided rocket from Hanwha Aerospace.
Meanwhile, the Barracuda 4x4 armoured vehicle, M18 57mm recoilless rifle and M45 Quadmount towed air defence system have all recently been retired by the force.
Many of the country’s defence firms were out in force at the inaugural Korea Army International Defence Industry
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![“A staggering rate of change”: how experience combating IEDs is being applied to the C-UAS arena]()
“A staggering rate of change”: how experience combating IEDs is being applied to the C-UAS arena
The scale of the current escalation in drone attacks is fuelling demand for C-UAS technology that must address a rapidly evolving and expanding threat. Against this background, important lessons can be learned from the battle against IEDs, with networked responses and dispersed capabilities essential to deliver enduring protection.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: has the time finally come for Oshkosh’s hybrid electric JLTV?]()
Eurosatory 2026: has the time finally come for Oshkosh’s hybrid electric JLTV?
Oshkosh Defense’s hybrid electric Joint Light Tactical Vehicle offers the standard benefits of this type in scenarios such as silent watch and silent running as well as providing power for recharging systems. The company is arguing its 115kW power opens other roles too, particularly counter-drone.
-
![Lockheed Martin plans a major expansion in Canada following the HIMARS acquisition]()
Lockheed Martin plans a major expansion in Canada following the HIMARS acquisition
The HIMARS acquisition could deliver launchers within 18 months while driving new investments in Canadian manufacturing, technology and defence supply chains.
-
![Air defence at scale: Europe’s challenge of cost, integration and sustainability]()
Air defence at scale: Europe’s challenge of cost, integration and sustainability
The evolution of aerial threats is driving renewed investment in ground-based air defence across Europe. Yet beyond capability, a more pressing challenge is emerging: how to sustain air defence at scale, as rising costs, limited stockpiles and industrial production constraints place increasing pressure on existing structures.
