The demonstration featured Hanwha Aerospace’s latest technology, including the K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer, K21 Infantry Fighting Vehicle, K30 Biho Short-Range Air Defense system, and the 30mm Anti-Aircraft Gun Wheeled System. Saudi delegates, alongside officials from South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, observed the live capabilities of these systems in a simulated battlefield environment.
During the exercise, 18 K9A1 Howitzers delivered an intense barrage, firing more than 90 rounds into designated targets. Additionally, the K30W Chunho (Sky Tiger) anti-aircraft gun vehicles and K30 Biho systems engaged aerial targets with precision, while the K21 Infantry Fighting Vehicle demonstrated its amphibious manoeuvrability.
The event also showcased new, customisable platforms developed by Hanwha Aerospace to meet Saudi Arabian defence requirements. These included the 155mm Wheeled Self-Propelled Howitzer with an automated turret, a Laser-Based Anti-Aircraft Weapon, the TIGON wheeled armoured vehicle, and the Hybrid Short-Range Air Defense (H-SHORAD) system, which integrates a 30mm unmanned turret and surface-to-air missiles.
“Today, we had a great opportunity to show our advanced defence technologies and products to the MNG delegation,” stated Oh Kyeahwan, Vice President and Head of Hanwha Aerospace Middle East & Africa. “Hanwha is fully committed to providing best-in-class defence solutions in all domains of air, sea, and land to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under strong bilateral partnership.”
The Saudi delegation is set to continue their review of Hanwha’s air defence systems, including a laser-guided anti-aircraft weapon, later this week. This visit aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which seeks to enhance the Kingdom’s defence capabilities and self-reliance in military technology.
A day prior to the live demonstration, Hanwha Group Vice Chairman Kim Dong-kwan met with Prince Abdullah in Seoul to discuss deepening economic and security cooperation. Kim reaffirmed Hanwha’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its defence modernisation objectives, with both sides agreeing to collaborate on regional security issues impacting the Middle East.
