South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has selected LIG Nex1 to develop the next-generation Cheongung-III air defense missile system, also known as KM-SAM Block III. It is stated that the project should be ready by 2034.
According to The Korea Economic Daily, the contractor was placed in charge of eight development programs related to the new air defense system. The contract is estimated at about 3 billion won ($2.2 billion).
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With this move, LIG Nex1 has gained an edge over its longtime rival, Hanwha Systems Co. Although it lost most of the contract, Hanwha Systems will still be responsible for the radar and launcher components.
The new air defense system will be an evolution of the Cheongung-II. It is known that the Cheongung-II system is capable of intercepting ballistic targets using hit-to-kill technology at altitudes of up to 15-20 km and ranges up to 40 km.
Cheongung-III is expected to significantly improve these characteristics. This means a fivefold increase in combat capabilities and a fourfold expansion of the protected area.
The new system is reported to enhance its capability to engage maneuvering targets, allowing for more effective interception of advanced missiles. This is especially important given the North Korea's experience in Ukraine. In fact, this SAM system should become a "South Korean Iron Dome".
In general, the KM-SAM Block III will be part of the Korean Air and Missile Defense (KAMD) as a medium-range SAM system. It will also include short-range (up to 5 km) and long-range (40-150 km) systems.
So far, Cheongung-II has been supplied both domestically and to export customers. The main export customers include the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
As for LIG Nex1, it is a leader in the South Korean missile technology market. Currently, the company is working on modular missiles to expand its presence in the global market.
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