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In response to North Korean threats, South Korea takes inspiration from Israel and accelerates the deployment of its own “Iron Dome” defense system. Learn how this advancement strengthens its national security!
On October 29, 2024, the South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced a breakthrough in its national defense: the acceleration of the deployment of the Low Altitude Missile Defense system (LAMD). The plan now foresees an operational start between 2029 and 2033, two years earlier than expected.
This measure comes amid rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula, heightened by threats from North Korea, forcing Seoul to adopt faster strategies to protect critical areas of the country.
LAMD: Advanced Air Defense System
The system LAMD was initiated in 2022, with development planned until 2033, primarily aimed at defending against artillery and missile attacks from North Korea.
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The main purpose of the LAMD is to protect strategic areas, especially the capital, Seoul. DAPA believes that the LAMD will be able to compete with Israel's famous Iron Dome, consisting of radars, engagement control centers, launchers and interceptor missiles. The intention is to mitigate the impact of possible long-range attacks.
With LAMD, South Korea strengthens its interception capabilities and raises its defense to another level, bringing an additional sense of security to residents near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).
Patriot Defense System Updates
In addition to the LAMD, DAPA also authorized a new phase of improvements to the Patriot defense system, acquiring the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) system. This new model uses hit-to-kill interceptors, which are more agile and accurate compared to previous systems, which used fragmentation warheads. With the PAC-3, each launcher supports up to 16 missiles, as opposed to four on the PAC-2, offering greater range and better tracking capabilities.
These upgrades not only modernize the country's defense infrastructure, but also make it less dependent on foreign technologies, consolidating domestic production of military equipment.
Cooperation and controversies with the US and China
South Korea also operates the US-supplied Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, which is designed to intercept missiles in their final phase. The initial deployment of THAAD in 2017 created tensions with China, which views the system's powerful radar as a threat to its security. In retaliation, China imposed economic and cultural sanctions, including restrictions on tourists visiting South Korea. In response, then-South Korean President Moon Jae-in pledged to limit further deployments of THAAD on South Korean territory.
Meanwhile, South Korea's defensive posture remains firm. Despite tensions with China, Seoul sees partnership with the US as crucial to maintaining its security and neutralizing potential threats from the North.
Threats from North Korea and proximity to the DMZ
North Korea has recently stepped up its provocations. In a series of retaliatory attacks, it launched balloons carrying debris toward Seoul after South Korean activists sent propaganda balloons into the North. Seoul's proximity to the DMZ — just 55 kilometers (XNUMX miles) — makes it vulnerable to large-scale artillery strikes.
Seoul’s security concerns are justified, given that North Korea has thousands of artillery systems along the border. This scenario further spurs efforts to ensure a robust defense capable of protecting the country’s population and vital infrastructure.
Development of L-SAM and Expansion of South Korea's Military Industry
South Korea is also working on a Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, designed to intercept missiles at altitudes of 50 to 60 km. This system is part of the Korean Air and Missile Defense (KAMD) and will be combined with the PAC-3 and Cheongung II to establish a multi-layered defense.
Another important development is the K2 Black Panther tank project. Seeking to reduce dependence on international suppliers, the next 150 K2 tanks will have transmissions manufactured locally by SNT Dynamics. This system will also be exported to Turkey, equipping the Altay main battle tanks. This effort strengthens the South Korean defense industry, increasing its competitiveness in the global market.
Since the beginning of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, South Korea has emerged as a supplier of military equipment, especially to European countries facing growing defense demands. With these new projects, South Korea demonstrates its ambitions to establish itself as a global, self-sufficient and technologically advanced military power.
By investing in defense and autonomy, the country seeks to prepare itself for future challenges, solidifying its position on the international stage.
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