LIG Nex1's Poniard rocket achieves 100% accuracy in US FCT Evaluation.

According to information published by LIG Nex1 on July 15, 2024, the company announced that its 2.75-inch guided rocket, known as 'Poniard,' successfully hit all six targets during the final Foreign Comparative Testing (FCT) conducted by the U.S. Department of Defense in Hawaiian waters. This program evaluates advanced technologies from allied defense companies worldwide to integrate into U.S. development and acquisition projects.
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Artist rendering of the guided rocket Poniard. (Picture source: South Korean MoD)

During the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC), the live-fire tests demonstrated the unmanned operation concept jointly established by the South Korean and U.S. navies. This scenario marked the first application of unmanned systems throughout the entire process, including target detection, satellite communication, and rocket launching from unmanned surface vehicles.

Initially deployed by the South Korean Marine Corps in 2016 to counter North Korean hovercraft, the Poniard system was adapted for export, integrating with unmanned surface vehicles developed by Textron. Utilizing insights from these tests, LIG Nex1 aims to enhance the agility of domestic unmanned surface operations through standardization and modular development, aligning with the Navy Sea Ghost strategy.

Designated for the FCT program in 2019, Poniard has maintained a perfect accuracy record. Initial trials focused on missile performance, followed by the development of a launch system suitable for small naval vessels in response to U.S. requirements. Subsequent tests were conducted in Key West, San Diego, and Hawaii.

The collaborative efforts of the South Korean military, Defense Acquisition Program Administration, and Defense Technology Promotion Research Institute were instrumental in modifying and testing the system to meet U.S. specifications. The 4,900-ton amphibious ship Cheon Ja Bong played a crucial role in transporting and launching the Poniard system in cooperation with the U.S. Navy.

Looking ahead, LIG Nex1 plans to secure a contract with the U.S. and expand into the global market. The company is working closely with the U.S. Navy to align with their unmanned operational concepts and is preparing for potential contracts pending U.S. Navy requirements and budget approvals.

Additionally, LIG Nex1 is exploring various platform developments to meet global security needs, with ongoing negotiations in the Middle East for export models based on its medium-sized reconnaissance unmanned surface vehicle, 'Haegum.'