Hyundai Rotem unveils upgraded K2EX Black Panther tank.

At ADEX 2023, Hyundai Rotem recently introduced two additions to its export lineup: the K2EX Black Panther and the N-WAV (Next-generation Wheeled Armored Vehicle). The K2EX Black Panther, labeled as "Export," represents an upgraded version of the standard K2 Black Panther model, and the anticipated Polish K2PL is expected to share similarities with this configuration.
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The K2EX, the latest export variant of the K2 Main Battle Tank, enables the crew to control the timing and manner of ammunition explosions (Picture source: Army Recognition)

To address market demands, Hyundai Rotem is presenting various export models, including the K2 Black Panther Main Battle Tank (MBT). The concept model 'K2EX,' tailored for overseas export and designed for adaptability to diverse global customer needs, incorporates advanced electronics and devices based on the systems developed for the K2 tank.

Notable improvements include an active protection device for intercepting and neutralizing projectiles to enhance survivability, a battlefield situation awareness device providing a 360° view, and a remote weapon system (RCWS) for improved operational effectiveness.

A noteworthy feature of the K2EX is the introduction of a modification allowing information-injected ammunition operation. This innovation enables the crew to control the timing and manner of ammunition explosions, enhancing adaptability in engagement strategies.

The K2 Black Panther, South Korea's actual Main Battle Tank (MBT), is a technologically advanced tank that has undergone three mass production phases, with plans for a fourth batch to meet the South Korean Army's requirement of 600 units. The tank's development began in 1995, and it was officially introduced into service in 2016.

The K2 is equipped with a 120mm smoothbore cannon featuring an automatic loading system, reducing the crew requirement to three members, and allowing for a firing rate of up to 10 rounds per minute and sustained fire for about three minutes. The tank's ammunition includes indigenous tungsten APFSDS kinetic energy penetrators and multi-purpose HEAT chemical energy rounds.

Supplementary armaments, such as a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun and a 12.7mm K-6 heavy machine gun, contribute to the tank's tactical use by engaging infantry and lightly armored targets. The K2's defense capabilities rely on composite armor and an Active Defense System incorporating Explosive Reactive Armor blocks, increasing resilience against various threats. The tank also features a Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) and employs Visual and Infrared Screening Smoke (VIRSS) grenades for defensive measures.

The tank is powered by a 1,500-horsepower engine, allowing a maximum road speed of 70 km/h and an off-road speed of 48 km/h. The In-arm Suspension Unit (ISU) suspension system allows independent control over each bogie on the tracks, facilitating optimal firing positions and navigation through challenging terrains.

The K2's combat effectiveness is attributed to advanced systems, including a fire-control system (FCS), millimeter-band radar, laser range-finder, and crosswind sensor for precise targeting. The tank's crew benefits from day/night and thermal vision capabilities, enhancing situational awareness. Additionally, the tank incorporates a collective nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protection system, automatic fire suppression system, and atmospheric sensors to address internal fire risks and potential threats, ensuring the safety of the crew in diverse and hazardous environments.