Instead of Thaad: Korean Hanwha offers the Middle East a new generation air defense system

To spread: At the IDEX exhibition in the UAE, the South Korean company presented two M-SAM and L-SAM air defense complexes. The latter is designed to intercept ballistic missiles at altitudes of 50-60 km. The South Korean company Hanwha Aerospace has demonstrated advanced air defense systems at IDEX 2025, including M-SAM and L-SAM complexes designed to counteract modern rocket threats. This was reported on February 18 by Army Recognition Operators.

It is noted that the company has concluded a contract of $ 3. 5 billion for the supply of M-SAM (Cheongung), including staff training, maintenance, and transfer in technology. Moreover, after an agreement with Abu Dhabi, similar orders were placed by Saudi Arabia and Iraq. M-SAM (Cheongung) is a South Korean Medium-Range Anti-Diaircraft Prash Prasure, designed to replace the outdated MIM-23 Hawk.

This complex is capable of affecting ballistic missiles and has improved characteristics: Hanwha also operates on L-SAM, a system of upper-level similar to American Thaad, designed to intercept ballistic missiles at a height of 50-60 km. It uses the Hit-To-Kill method and is equipped with a MFR multifunctional radar. The development should be completed in 2024, mass production is planned for 2027.

In parallel, the company also works on L-SAM II, which will increase the interception zone 3-4 times and should be ready by 2028. These systems are focused on the protection of critical objects - state -owned, airports, oil refineries - from the threats of swarm drones.