South Korea completes development of long-range surface-to-air missile system
developed Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, a significant milestone aimed at enhancing the country's air defense capabilities. Scheduled for production starting next year, the L-SAM is slated to be operational by 2028, targeting incoming threats at altitudes ranging from 50 to 60 kilometers (31-37 miles).
- Asia
- Anadolu Agency
- Published Date: 02:17 | 25 May 2024
- Modified Date: 02:17 | 25 May 2024
South Korea on Saturday said it has completed the development of the homegrown Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, marking a "major" step in efforts to bolster the military's air defense capabilities.
L-SAM is expected to begin production next year and be deployed for operations by 2028, Seoul-based Yonhap News reported citing the state arms procurement agency Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA).
L-SAM, which is designed to shoot down incoming targets at altitudes of 50-60 kilometers (31-37 miles), was recently assessed as combat-suitable as it met the military's technical requirements.
The system is expected to play a key role in the country's multilayered missile shield, called the Korea Air and Missile Defense.
South Korean military currently operates the homegrown medium-range surface-to-air missile system and the US Surface-to-Air MissileAdvanced Capability-3 system to intercept incoming missiles at lower altitudes than the L-SAM.
For targets at higher altitudes, the country has so far relied on the US Forces Korea's Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system that can defend against upper-tier threats at altitudes of 40-150 km.