South Korea completes development of new long-range missile system

The development of the indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile (L-SAM) system marks an important step in the South Korean military's efforts to strengthen its air defense capabilities, according to Yonhap News Agency.

South Korea's long-range surface-to-air missile (L-SAM) system during a test

The L-SAM, designed to shoot down incoming targets at an altitude of 50-60 km, was recently evaluated as suitable for combat as it meets the technical requirements of the South Korean military, according to DAPA.

Once development is complete, the L-SAM is expected to enter production next year and be deployed in combat in 2028.

Once deployed, the L-SAM is expected to play a key role in the multi-layered missile shield, known as the Korea Air and Missile Defense System.

The South Korean military is operating its own indigenous medium-range surface-to-air missile system and the US Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missile system to intercept incoming missiles at lower altitudes than the targets that the L-SAM can shoot down.

For higher altitude targets, South Korea has so far relied on the US Forces Korea Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system. THAAD can counter threats at altitudes of 40-150 km.

The South Korean military is developing a Block-II version of the L-SAM designed to intercept targets at higher altitudes than those the newly developed L-SAM can target, according to Yonhap.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/han-quoc-hoan-tat-viec-phat-trien-he-thong-ten-lua-tam-xa-moi-185240525185517587.htm