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Presentation of South Korean MAD-AM Drone by Poongsan at KADEX 2024.
During the KADEX 2024 exhibition in South Korea, the Korean arms manufacturer Poongsan unveiled a new range of combat drones, including the MAD-AM (Multicopter Attack Drone-Aerial Munition), a compact quadcopter drone designed to provide a light and mobile attack solution. This drone, easily transportable in a backpack, is intended for use by a single soldier on the battlefield, thus enhancing individual strike capability in various tactical environments.
Multicopter Attack Drone-Aerial Munition at KADEX 2024. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The MAD-AM is remotely controlled and capable of carrying up to three small grenade-type munitions equipped with stabilizing fins to ensure steady descent. This feature allows for increased accuracy during strikes, as the munitions are dropped vertically onto the target. Depending on the mission, these munitions can be fitted with either high-explosive fragmentation (HE) warheads or shaped charges optimized for penetrating the upper armor of main battle tanks (MBTs) and other armored vehicles.
This drone is designed to offer tactical flexibility in anti-tank missions or against lightly armored targets, utilizing both the mobility and discretion offered by a compact quadcopter. Due to its small size, the MAD-AM can easily navigate through complex terrains, enabling a stealthy approach before delivering its munitions directly onto enemy targets.
The presentation of the MAD-AM at KADEX 2024 aligns with a global trend toward lighter and autonomous combat solutions, reflecting the growing need for modern armed forces to integrate tactical drone systems capable of supporting ground soldiers in high-intensity operations. Poongsan thus strengthens its position in the attack drone sector by offering an adaptable and efficient solution that meets the demands of contemporary conflicts.
Founded in 1968, Poongsan Corporation is a major South Korean manufacturer in the fields of non-ferrous metals and munitions. It is particularly known for its production of military munitions, ranging from small 5.56 mm cartridges to 8-inch artillery shells for systems such as howitzers. The company has established itself as a key supplier to the Korean armed forces and international defense markets, while also playing a significant role in the production of munitions for sporting and commercial uses.
Poongsan benefits from a fully integrated manufacturing process, mastering every stage of ammunition production, from raw materials such as copper alloys and explosive compounds to the final assembly of munitions. This technical expertise and its constant commitment to research and development have enabled the company to maintain a competitive global position, particularly in the manufacturing of high-precision munitions and large-caliber weapons. In addition to ammunition, the company also produces copper alloys used in various industries, including the manufacturing of electronic components and semiconductor parts.
The MAD-AM represents a new milestone in the evolution of portable attack drones, combining advanced technology with field efficiency. Its presentation at KADEX 2024 has generated significant interest, demonstrating that the demand for this type of combat system continues to grow in an increasingly uncertain international context.