South Korea has pulled back the curtain on its latest military tech development: the ‘short-range air-to-air guided missile-II’, a locally produced missile. Introduced at a recent DAPA event, this missile is destined for the KF-21 fighter, replacing imported counterparts and represents a bold step towards self-sufficiency and technological advancement in the nation’s defence sector.
Mztourist, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Currently, the KF-21 relies on foreign-made air-to-air missiles, specifically the MBDA Meteor and the Diehl IRIS-T. The high cost of these imported systems, particularly the Meteor, has spurred the need for an indigenous alternative, with the new missile set to replace the IRIS-T. The decision to develop the indigenous air-to-air-II missile was influenced by the relative ease of replacing the IRIS-T, which is technically less challenging.
The air-to-air-II missile boasts a distinctive design, merging elements from the IRIS-T and the LIG Nex1 ‘Haegung’ ship-launched surface-to-air missile. Notably, it utilises the same Sidewinder connection interface as the IRIS-T, employing an umbilical cable for target information exchange and power, alongside an identical pylon attachment method. This compatibility ensures seamless integration with NATO-standard fighter jets, making it suitable not only for the KF-21 but also for potential export markets. The missile also incorporates two-stage strake technology derived from the Haegung missile, which reduces air resistance while enhancing lift. Furthermore, the enlarged tail fins enhance manoeuvrability and speed during directional changes.
A key feature of the new missile is its improved Infrared Imaging (IIR) seeker, which has been miniaturised and delivers a resolution 2-3 times higher than competing models. This improvement allows the missile to detect targets at greater distances and reduces the chance of being fooled by decoys or countermeasures. Additionally, a data link enhances the missile’s targeting capabilities, enabling attacks on targets not directly detected by the seeker, including those located behind the launch aircraft. The rocket combustion chamber has been switched from carbon composite to aluminium, increasing structural strength. All these aerodynamic and propulsion arrangements allow the missile to achieve at least 50G of manoeuvrability.
The project has been allocated a budget of 435.9 billion won, with integration into the KF-21 slated for completion by 2032. The execution plan and contract are expected to be finalised between August and September. LIG Nex1 and Hanwha Aerospace are anticipated to play key roles in the project, with LIG Nex1 bringing considerable experience in air-to-air missile technology. The missile’s infrared detectors will be sourced from i3system, the only domestic manufacturer of these components.
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