LIG Nex1 Poniard guided rocket poised to revolutionize coastal defense at KADEX 2024.

At KADEX 2024, LIG Nex1 is showcasing its advanced Poniard (K-LOGIR) 2.75-inch guided rocket, highlighting its land-to-ship capabilities. Originally developed for the South Korean military, this cost-effective and precise missile system has gained international attention after completing a series of successful tests, including the U.S. Foreign Comparative Testing (FCT) program.
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Poniard 2.75 inch guided rocket at KADEX 2024, South Korea. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

Poniard, known in Korea as "Bigung," utilizes an Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker and a fire-and-forget system, allowing it to engage targets under various environmental conditions. Notably, it demonstrated exceptional accuracy during RIMPAC 2024, where it successfully struck multiple maritime targets while deployed from an unmanned surface vehicle (USV). This success marks a significant step toward its integration into U.S. defense projects, with LIG Nex1 now seeking export contracts, including potential deals with the U.S. and other international partners

The Poniard is not only an affordable alternative to more expensive systems like the Hellfire missile, but it also offers tactical flexibility, designed to counter threats such as fast-moving small boats and unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Comparison

This is in contrast to the U.S.'s APKWS (Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System), which relies on laser guidance and requires continuous targeting until impact. The Poniard’s cost per round is significantly lower, approximately one-third of a Hellfire missile, making it an attractive option for nations seeking effective but affordable precision munitions​.

Compared to the Turkish Roketsan Cirit, which also converts unguided 70mm rockets into guided munitions, the Poniard has proven particularly adept in maritime environments, with a focus on coastal defense against North Korean hovercraft and similar threats. It offers a similar range but differentiates itself with its fire-and-forget infrared guidance system, which is more suited for maritime conditions where laser-guidance systems might struggle due to fog or sea mist.