Hanwha Aerospace has received a contract worth ₩705 billion (about USD 482 million) from South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) to produce the Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system.
This contract, which will process until 2030, involves the mass production and delivery of L-SAM launchers and anti-ballistic missiles for South Korea’s military.
The L-SAM is designed to intercept ballistic missiles at longer distances as well as higher altitudes than current defense systems. It can target threats before other missile defense systems, like the M-SAM and Patriot missiles, are activated.
The L-SAM uses advanced technology, including a divert and attitude control system (DACS) and dual-pulse propulsion, which help it accurately intercept missiles at high altitudes where typical control systems are less effective.
Hanwha Systems also received a ₩357.3 billion contract from DAPA last month to produce the L-SAM Multi-Function Radar (MFR). This radar detects as well as tracks incoming missiles and enemy aircraft, helping the L-SAM system target and intercept threats.
The L-SAM-II project is also underway, being developed by South Korea’s Agency for Defense Development (ADD) in partnership with Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Systems.
Executive Statement
According to A Hanwha Aerospace spokesperson, this contract represents an important milestone in Hanwha Aerospace’s contribution to Korea’s air and missile defense. Through the stable mass production of L-SAM, they will help strengthen the security of the Republic of Korea. At the same time, the technologies and experience accumulated through this program will support deeper, higher-value defense cooperation with global partner nations.