LIG Nex1 has been selected over long-time rival Hanwha Systems to lead South Korea’s next-generation air defense program, based on the country’s family of Cheongung surface-to-air missiles.
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) on Monday awarded LIG Nex1 the primary contractor role for eight of 19 core components under the Cheongung-3 program, according to local media.
More specifically, the company will develop the engagement control system, command-and-control unit, and interceptor missile, among others, as well as handle full system integration.
LIG Nex1 edged out Hanwha by just 0.1 points in the evaluation process, underscoring the competitiveness of what DAPA described as a cornerstone effort in South Korea’s evolving air defense strategy.
Despite the loss, Hanwha will still play a major role in the project, taking responsibility for the production of the missile launcher, propulsion system, and multi-function radar. Several other South Korean firms will develop the remaining system elements.
South Korea’s ‘Iron Dome’
The Cheongung-3 program is a 3-trillion-won ($2.2 billion) effort to develop an upgraded mid-range surface-to-air missile system.
Often described as South Korea’s version of the combat-proven Iron Dome, the system is designed to bolster Seoul’s ability to intercept ballistic missiles and other advanced airborne threats from North Korea.
Unlike its predecessor, the Cheongung-2, which focused on short- to medium-range threats, the Cheongung-3 will feature enhanced intercept capabilities to handle more complex aerial attacks, including maneuvering targets.
It is expected to offer five times the engagement range and cover four times the area of the earlier system.
LIG Nex1’s win caps a tight race between two of South Korea’s top defense firms, reflecting growing competition as the country accelerates its push for a modernized air defense network.
