South Korea approves $1.46 Billion for additional K2 main battle Tanks Production.

SEOUL - The South Korean government approved a major plan on May 25, 2023, for the mass production of additional K2 Black Panther Main Battle Tanks (MBTs), aimed at bolstering the military's readiness against potential enemy threats, according to the South Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA).
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The K2 Black Panther MBTs are the backbone of the South Korean armed forces. (Picture source Army Recognition)

The South Korean Defense Project Promotion Committee approved the project with an allocated budget of 1.94 trillion won (US$1.46 billion). The project is slated to unfold over the next five years, as part of the government's efforts to enhance South Korea's national security.

DAPA expects the additional tanks to significantly enhance the operational capacities of the military's maneuver corps. "By acquiring additional K2 tanks through this project, (we) expect them to greatly contribute to enhancing the maneuver corps' capabilities to carry out offensive maneuver warfare," said a DAPA spokesperson.

Although DAPA did not specify the exact number of tanks to be built, this project marks the fourth round of mass production of the K2 tanks. Introduced into service in 2014, K2 tanks have become an integral part of the South Korean Army's armored units.

According to an insider source, the South Korean Army currently boasts a fleet of 2,074 Main Battle Tanks. This includes 484 K1A1/K1A2 tanks, 150 K2 tanks, 400 M48A5 tanks, and 40 T-80U tanks.

The decision to further invest in the production of K2 tanks is part of a broader effort by South Korea to ensure that it can effectively deter any threats to its national security.

The K2 Main Battle Tank (MBT), also known as the "Black Panther," represents the epitome of South Korea's defense capabilities. Developed by Hyundai Rotem, the K2 MBT is characterized by its cutting-edge technology and superior firepower. Since its induction in 2014, it has become an integral part of the South Korean military's armored force, enhancing the nation's ability to carry out offensive maneuver warfare.

The K2 MBT is equipped with a 120mm smoothbore gun, capable of firing various types of ammunition, including APFSDS (Armor-Piercing Fin-Stabilized Discarding Sabot), HEAT (High-Explosive Anti-Tank), and HE-FRAG (High-Explosive Fragmentation) rounds. This powerful gun provides the tank with exceptional firepower and the ability to engage both armored and soft targets effectively.

Additionally, the K2 features a coaxial machine gun and a remote-controlled weapon station, armed with a 12.7mm heavy machine gun, for engaging enemy infantry and lightly armored vehicles. The tank is also equipped with advanced fire control systems, thermal imaging, and night vision capabilities, enhancing its accuracy and target acquisition abilities in various lighting conditions.

As tensions continue to mount in the Korean Peninsula, South Korea's decision to invest heavily in its military readiness underscores the nation's commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.