Republic of korea use new radar to detect and neutralize north artillery shelling.

South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced the successful on March 29,2024, nationwide deployment of the advanced TPQ-74K counter-battery radar system. This latest development marks a pivotal enhancement in the country's readiness against potential provocations from the North.Initiated in 2018, the deployment of the TPQ-74K radar follows a comprehensive seven-year development phase, aimed specifically at countering North Korean artillery attacks. These provocations pose a substantial threat to front-line islands in the Yellow Sea and the densely populated greater Seoul area, which is home to nearly half of South Korea's 51 million residents.
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TPQ-74K presentation picture (Picture source South korean DAPA  )

 The TPQ-74K radar, developed by South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration, marks a significant advancement in military surveillance and defense capabilities, particularly tailored to counter the artillery threat from North Korea. Equipped with the latest Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, the TPQ-74K boasts unparalleled detection capabilities, enabling it to track multiple targets simultaneously with high precision, even in environments laden with electronic interference. Its design emphasizes mobility, allowing for swift deployment across various terrains, which is critical for adapting to changing tactical situations on the ground. The radar's transportable nature ensures that it can be rapidly repositioned to safeguard key strategic areas, including the densely populated greater Seoul area and vulnerable front-line islands in the Yellow Sea. Moreover, the AESA technology significantly reduces the radar's signature, making it difficult for adversaries to detect and target. This combination of advanced detection accuracy, mobility, and stealth capabilities makes the TPQ-74K a cornerstone of South Korea's defensive strategy against North Korean artillery threats, enhancing the nation's ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential provocations.

 DAPA has confirmed the full operational deployment of the TPQ-74K across Army Corps units nationwide and for the Marine Corps stationed on border islands, establishing the radar as a cornerstone of the country's artillery combat strategy. "This deployment will substantially improve our capabilities to detect enemy artillery shells and greatly contribute to strengthening our military's artillery forces," stated Lee Myung, head of DAPA's Firepower Program Department.

Lee also highlighted the potential of the TPQ-74K radar on the global defense market, particularly if exported in conjunction with South Korea's indigenous K9 self-propelled howitzers. This move could further solidify South Korea's standing in international defense markets, leveraging its advanced military technology.

The significance of this deployment cannot be understated, especially in light of North Korea's extensive artillery capabilities. With one of the world's largest artillery forces, North Korea has stationed numerous long-range artillery units capable of striking the wider Seoul area, posing a constant threat to South Korea's security.

This initiative follows the tragic 2010 bombardment of Yeonpyeong Island by North Korea, which resulted in the death of four South Koreans and heightened tensions on the peninsula. South Korea's completion of the TPQ-74K radar deployment represents a step forward in korean wants to securize its territory from north korean military moves.

Defense News April 2024