On July 14, 2026, South Korea's LIG Nex1 unveiled the initial KSAM-II surface-to-air missile production line at Plant 3 in Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province. The facility establishes domestic production capability for the 6-meter naval interceptor designed to replace the U.S.-built SM-2 aboard future KDDX destroyers and FFX Batch IV frigates. Committing industrial infrastructure prior to flight-test qualification mitigates potential operational capability gaps between ship deliveries and missile availability. Read full defense news at this link...
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| Compared with the SM-2, the KSAM-II is designed to spot smaller missiles, react faster, and reduce South Korea's dependence on imported U.S.-made missiles. (Picture source: X/Mason ヨンハク) |