South Korea unveils HR-Sherpa UGV with integrated counter-drone missiles at WDS 2026.

At World Defense Show 2026, Hyundai Rotem presented a new HR-Sherpa unmanned ground vehicle counter-drone variant integrating a surface-to-air missile supplied by LIG Nex1.

At World Defense Show 2026, Hyundai Rotem revealed a new variant of its HR-Sherpa unmanned ground vehicle, integrating radar detection and a surface-to-air missile system from LIG Nex1. This counter-unmanned aircraft system positions the HR-Sherpa as a mobile ground-based platform intended for perimeter security, surveillance, and localized air defense against low-altitude drone threats.
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Hyundai Rotem revealed a new configuration of its HR-Sherpa multipurpose unmanned ground vehicle integrating a counter-unmanned aircraft capability, combining onboard radar detection with a surface-to-air missile supplied by LIG Nex1. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Hyundai Rotem revealed a new configuration of its HR-Sherpa multipurpose unmanned ground vehicle integrating a counter-unmanned aircraft capability, combining onboard radar detection with a surface-to-air missile supplied by LIG Nex1. This marked the first time this specific counter-drone configuration of the HR-Sherpa was shown at the exhibition, placing the unmanned vehicle within the expanding category of mobile ground-based air defense assets. The system was positioned to support perimeter security, surveillance, and localized air defense missions in response to the growing operational use of drones across multiple battlefield roles. The presentation also aligned with Hyundai Rotem’s broader emphasis on unmanned ground systems incorporating artificial intelligence, autonomous control functions, and alternative propulsion concepts as part of future land warfare adaptation. 

Also known as the Multi-Purpose Unmanned Ground Vehicle, the HR-Sherpa shown at WDS 2026 is based on a six-by-six electric drive architecture, using in-wheel electric motors on all six wheels to provide independent propulsion and control. This layout allows continued mobility even if one or two wheels are damaged, while also freeing internal volume and reducing overall mechanical complexity by integrating the drive train directly into the wheels. The vehicle uses airless tires, eliminating puncture-related mobility loss and reducing uneven wear associated with air pressure variation. It can rotate on its axis, allowing tight maneuvering in confined areas and rapid directional changes during security or escort missions. 

In terms of core performances, the HR-Sherpa has a combat weight of 2 tonnes and a maximum speed of 30 km/h, divided between an unloaded weight of about 1,600 kg and a payload capacity of up to 400 kg, depending on mission equipment. Endurance figures include up to six hours of operation when cruising at 5 km/h, with operating time extending to 12 hours depending on mission profile and environment. The baseline HR-Sherpa measures roughly 2.7 meters in length, 1.7 meters in width, and 0.9 meters in height. The UGV supports multiple driving and control modes, including remote operation, route-point autonomous navigation, and subordinate or dependent driving in which the HR-Sherpa automatically follows a soldier or lead element.

Sensor integration includes combinations of cameras for day and night operation, LiDAR for environmental recognition, and artificial intelligence functions to support object recognition and path selection. These capabilities are intended to allow the vehicle to conduct reconnaissance, patrol, and escort missions with limited direct operator input while retaining human oversight. The same control architecture underpins its suitability as a mobile host for systems such as the counter-drone radar and missile package shown in 2026. Mission flexibility is a central feature of the HR-Sherpa design, with the UGV structured to accept a wide range of modular payloads for missions such as surveillance and reconnaissance, ammunition and supply transport, casualty evacuation, fire support, and detection or handling of hazardous items such as explosives.

The vehicle can be equipped with a remote-controlled weapon station, allowing remote engagement and self-defense while transmitting real-time imagery to the operator. A cargo module capable of handling loads exceeding 200 kg is also referenced, supporting logistics and medical evacuation tasks without exposing personnel to direct risk. Development of the HR-Sherpa spans multiple generations, beginning with a concept reveal in 2018 and followed by demonstrations at events such as the 2019 Korea–ASEAN Special Summit, Armed Forces Day commemorations, and DX Korea 2020. Two improved multi-purpose unmanned vehicles based on the HR-Sherpa were later delivered to the South Korean Army for six months of trial operation, during which evaluation items included maximum speed, hill-climbing capability, endurance, and autonomous driving performance.

All 25 listed evaluation criteria were met during these trials, which also included operation in sensitive areas such as the Demilitarized Zone. Selection under a rapid acquisition program in late 2020 led to a $3.6 million development contract covering prototypes, training, and support. Later iterations culminated in the fourth-generation HR-Sherpa design revealed in 2024, developed in close collaboration with Hyundai Motor Group and incorporating refinements to durability, protection, and autonomous functions. Design changes included increased ground clearance, reduced overall vehicle height for stability and cover, additional protective structures to absorb external shocks, and revised wheel guards to maintain traction in unstable terrain. By 2025, Hyundai Rotem also positioned the HR-Sherpa within manned-unmanned teaming concepts for amphibious and joint operations, alongside other armored and support vehicles.

Written by Jérôme Brahy

Jérôme Brahy is a defense analyst and documentalist at Army Recognition. He specializes in naval modernization, aviation, drones, armored vehicles, and artillery, with a focus on strategic developments in the United States, China, Ukraine, Russia, Türkiye, and Belgium. His analyses go beyond the facts, providing context, identifying key actors, and explaining why defense news matters on a global scale.