South Korean firm LIG Defense & Aerospace (D&A) has launched its first US subsidiary as part of efforts to expand its presence in the American market.
Named LIG Defense US, the entity will foster local partnerships, drive technology collaboration, and enhance cooperation with the US Navy, local Korean media reported.
The company has assigned retired US Navy Vice Admiral Richard Brown as senior adviser to support engagement with naval stakeholders and drive business development.
LIG said Brown’s experience, having previously led surface forces at the US Pacific Fleet and overseen real-world operations and combat readiness, positions him to help deepen ties with the US military.
The move follows LIG’s demonstration of its Poniard guided rocket, also known as “Bigung,” under the US Foreign Comparative Testing program during a joint exercise in Hawaii.
The evaluation has raised prospects for integration into US systems.
It also comes as the company seeks to expand its footprint across Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
“The establishment of the US subsidiary reflects the efforts LIG D&A has made — and will continue to make — to position itself as a true partner to the US defense industry,” The Korea Times quoted CEO Shin Ick-hyun as saying.
“We will strive to serve as a bridgehead for Korea-US defense cooperation.”
