Hanwha Systems and Northrop Grumman partner on IBCS-based air and missile defence solutions for Korea

The partnership comes amid global concerns over evolving aerial threats highlighted by recent conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war and unrest in the Middle East. Nations are increasingly turning to adaptive, highly integrated defence systems to counter the growing use of fighter jets, ballistic missiles, and drones.

Northrop Grumman, the developer of the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), is contributing its expertise in advanced command and control technology. IBCS connects sensors and interceptors across land, sea, and air domains, offering rapid and coordinated responses to complex threats.

By networking diverse radar and interceptor systems, IBCS enables faster, more precise engagement decisions and selects the most effective available interceptor regardless of origin. The system is currently being deployed by the U.S. Army and evaluated for broader international adoption, including potential expansion into Europe.

“This MOU with Hanwha demonstrates our strong desire to collaborate with Korean industry in exploring opportunities to provide innovative and cost-effective air and missile defense solutions that enhance Korean homeland defense,” said Kenn Todorov, vice president and general manager, command & control and weapons integration at Northrop Grumman.

Hanwha Systems brings to the table its advanced command and control capabilities, including systems such as the Korea Air and Missile Defense Operations Center (KAMDOC), the Master Control and Reporting Center (MCRC), and the Air Defense Command Control & Alert (ADC2A). These platforms form the backbone of South Korea’s indigenous air and missile defence architecture.

KAMDOC, developed with the Agency for Defense Development between 2019 and 2022, plays a central role in Korea’s layered missile defence by enabling centralised command operations. The MCRC ensures continuous airspace surveillance and control, while ADC2A integrates various battlefield sensors and engagement systems into a unified defence network.

In addition to command systems, Hanwha Systems is a key player in radar development for Korea’s layered missile defence strategy. Its portfolio includes multi-function radars supporting systems such as the Low Altitude Missile Defense (LAMD), the medium-range Cheongung-II (M-SAM Block-II), and long-range L-SAM and L-SAM Block-II interceptors.

By joining forces, Hanwha Systems and Northrop Grumman aim to advance the development of next-generation air and missile defence solutions. The collaboration is expected to bolster Korea’s national defence while enhancing the global competitiveness of both firms.