UAVs in multiple classes proliferate in South Korea
The MUAV/KUS-FS developed by KAL-ASD for the ROK Air Force is dimensionally slightly larger than an MQ-9B Reaper. (Photo: Gordon Arthur)
South Korea is rapidly advancing its UAV programmes and counter-drone capabilities in response to increasing threats from North Korea’s unmanned aerial systems.
South Korea has been progressing various UAV programmes – ranging from small commercial types to sophisticated medium-altitude long-endurance aircraft – as it leverages unmanned technologies to give it an edge against neighbouring North Korea.
In its defence budget statement issued on 28 August, Seoul said: “We’ve continued to acquire multipurpose commercial drones using cutting-edge technology, and in particular, expanded the purchase of drones…to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Drone Operations Command and ensure training and education conditions.”
The aforementioned Drone Operations Command, headquartered in north of Seoul in Pocheon, was established in September 2023. It was a reaction to
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