Hanwha Aerospace Wins Key Deal to Fortify South Korea’s Advanced Air and Missile Defense Framework

• Hanwha Aerospace set to commence extensive production of L-SAM launchers and anti-ballistic missiles by 2030.
• KRW 705.4 billion L-SAM deal with DAPA guarantees advanced defensive capabilities for South Korea.
• Cutting-edge South Korean missile defense solution to utilize DACS and dual-pulse thrust mechanisms.

Nov 28, 2025 — Hanwha Aerospace has secured a KRW 705 billion ($482 million) contract with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) for the production of the Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, a crucial element of South Korea’s comprehensive air and missile defense strategy.

Under this agreement, Hanwha Aerospace is poised to launch mass production and deliver L-SAM launchers and anti-ballistic missiles (ABM) to the Republic of Korea Armed Forces through 2030. By incorporating a sophisticated high-altitude interception layer, L-SAM will enhance South Korea’s capabilities to intercept hostile ballistic missiles before the activation of existing systems like M-SAM and Patriot.

This agreement promises essential upgrades to the Republic of Korea Armed Forces, enabling them to effectively respond to the growing threats from ballistic missiles and aerial assaults.

The L-SAM incorporates state-of-the-art technologies, including a divert and attitude control system (DACS) along with a dual-pulse propulsion mechanism. It is the first long-range missile defense solution developed in Korea to incorporate these technologies, ensuring precise interception of ballistic missiles, even at extreme altitudes where traditional aerodynamic controls become obsolete. This greatly enhances the reliability and efficiency of Korea’s air and missile defense network.

This contract follows a KRW 357.3 billion production agreement established last month between DAPA and Hanwha Systems for the L-SAM Multi-Function Radar (MFR). Acting as the “eyes” and primary sensor for the L-SAM system, the MFR detects and monitors incoming ballistic threats and enemy aircraft across vast distances.

Concurrently, South Korea’s Agency for Defense Development (ADD), in partnership with industry collaborators such as Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Systems, is advancing L-SAM-II. Building on the existing L-SAM framework, L-SAM-II aims to enhance the defended air and missile engagement range by three to four times compared to current systems, thus fortifying the nation’s strategic defense and deterrence capabilities.

“This contract marks a significant milestone in Hanwha Aerospace’s contribution to Korea’s air and missile defense domain,” commented a representative from Hanwha Aerospace. “Through ongoing mass production of L-SAM, we strive to bolster the security of the Republic of Korea. Additionally, the insights and technological advancements achieved through this initiative will foster deeper and high-value defense collaborations with international partners.”