Hanwha Aerospace presents its K21 Redback IFV at BSDA 2024.

Hanwha Aerospace, a South Korean aerospace and defense company, participates in the Black Sea Defence & Aerospace (BSDA) 2024 exhibition and showcases it’s K21 Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). This marks Hanwha Aerospace's first participation in this Black Sea region defense expo, showcasing the company's ambitious initiatives to build and expand partnerships with Romania and neighboring countries.
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Developed based on South Korea's K21 IFV, the Redback incorporates cutting-edge technologies and capabilities, including in-arm suspension units, composite rubber tracks, an anti-assault active protection system, and a helmet-mounted situational awareness display (Picture source: Army Recognition)

At the expo, Hanwha Aerospace is presenting a range of advanced capabilities, focusing on combat vehicles and precision-guided weapons. The Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) will be a focal point, as it features a series of innovative technologies that meet the requirements of Romania's military modernization plans. According to the company, the Redback is the most advanced IFV in the world, offering top-tier armored protection, mobility, and lethality. In addition, the Redback IFV solution is expected to contribute to significant mass production capabilities in the Romanian market through active industrial partnerships.

Developed based on South Korea's K21 IFV, the Redback incorporates cutting-edge technologies and capabilities, including in-arm suspension units, composite rubber tracks, an anti-assault active protection system, and a helmet-mounted situational awareness display. In 2023, the Redback was selected by Australia for the LAND 400 Phase 3 program, which involves the delivery of 129 IFVs, with substantial involvement from Australian supply chains. The Redback is also considered a reference model for developing the next generation of South Korean army IFVs.

Hanwha Aerospace is fully committed to delivering high-quality products and services to support Romania's military modernization plans. The company also plans to contribute to Romania's industry and economy through local production, employment, technology transfer, joint research and development, and export commercialization.

Other products showcased at BSDA include the K10 ammunition resupply vehicle, the Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system, and the Chungum tactical guided missile for manned and unmanned vehicles. The AS21 Redback represents the next generation of tracked IFVs, incorporating advanced technologies for superior firepower, enhanced protection, and unmatched mobility. Its Integrated Vetronics System (IVS) enables seamless information sharing among various systems and components, improving operational efficiency.

Constructed by Hanwha Aerospace, the AS21 Redback comprises three main components: the hull, turret, and powertrain. The hull features modular armor for protection against various threats, including mines, improvised explosive devices, and kinetic energy projectiles. This modularity allows adaptability to diverse threat environments.

The AS21 Redback is armed with a two-seater turret equipped with a 30 mm Bushmaster MK44S automatic cannon, a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun, eight 76 mm multi-barrel smoke grenade launchers, and two SPIKE LR2 anti-tank missile launchers. Optional armaments include the EOS R400S Mk2 HD or R150 remote weapon system and Javelin anti-tank missiles. The vehicle offers STANAG 4569 level 5 ballistic protection for the hull and level 4a/4b mine protection. The Iron Fist active protection system further enhances its defense against a broad range of threats.

In terms of mobility, the AS21 Redback is powered by an 8-cylinder 1000 hp MTU diesel engine, enabling it to reach speeds over 65 km/h and an operational range of 520 km. Its composite rubber track system provides superior maneuverability on challenging terrains.