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South Korea Develops Long-Range Interceptor to Counter North Korean Artillery Threats by 2028.
On January 20, 2025, South Korea officially initiated the development of a domestically produced interception system comparable to Israel's Iron Dome. The project, overseen by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), aims to enhance South Korea's defense capabilities against the persistent threat of North Korean artillery. According to The Korea Times, this program marks a significant step in safeguarding critical military and civilian infrastructure, particularly in the Seoul metropolitan area. Home to nearly 25 million people, this region is a key target for North Korea due to its high population density and economic importance.
The development of the LAMD system is also part of a broader vision to position South Korea as a leader in advanced defense technology (Picture source: DAPA)
Known as the Low-Altitude Missile Defense (LAMD) system, the project is set to receive funding of 479.8 billion won (approximately $329 million) and is planned for completion by 2028. During a critical meeting on January 20, 2025, DAPA confirmed the involvement of the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) alongside leading South Korean defense companies, including LIG Nex1, Hanwha Aerospace, and Hanwha Systems. These industry partners will play a pivotal role in developing technology capable of intercepting multiple artillery rounds simultaneously, addressing the increasing threat posed by North Korea's long-range artillery.
The concept of a domestic system akin to the Iron Dome was first announced in June 2021, when the South Korean government outlined plans to create a defense system valued at 2.89 trillion won ($2.6 billion). The initiative was designed to protect critical installations and densely populated areas from a large arsenal of North Korean artillery, estimated to include thousands of long-range systems capable of striking Seoul and its surroundings.
In advancing the project, South Korea has expedited the deployment timeline for the LAMD system, initially planned for the next decade. The system is now expected to become operational between 2025 and 2028. This accelerated schedule reflects a strategic effort to address immediate threats while reducing reliance on foreign defense systems and enhancing domestic technological capabilities.
Bang Uk-chul, head of DAPA's guided weapons division, emphasized the strategic significance of the project, noting that the South Korean interceptor will feature advanced capabilities, including the ability to handle multiple simultaneous targets. This improvement is essential given North Korea’s ongoing development of sophisticated artillery systems designed to overwhelm existing defenses with massed and coordinated attacks.
Seoul and its surrounding areas, home to nearly half of South Korea's population, are particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to the demilitarized zone (DMZ). Experts estimate that North Korea maintains an extensive arsenal of long-range artillery positioned to inflict severe damage on both civilian and military targets. The LAMD system is considered a critical component of South Korea’s defense strategy to counter these asymmetric threats effectively.
The development of the LAMD system is also part of a broader vision to position South Korea as a leader in advanced defense technology. By investing in innovative solutions and collaborating with domestic industry leaders, the country aims to enhance national security while creating defense systems that may appeal to international markets facing similar challenges.
This initiative underscores South Korea’s proactive approach to addressing security concerns posed by its northern neighbor. By developing a long-range interceptor system by 2028, the country aims to protect its citizens and critical infrastructure while strengthening its technological independence in defense. This project may also serve as a model for other nations seeking to adapt their defenses to modern threats, marking a significant evolution in regional security dynamics in East Asia.